Stapling assembly for forming different formed staple heights

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

0001The present application is a continuation patent application claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,278, filed on May 27, 2011, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES THAT PRODUCE FORMED STAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT LENGTHS, which issued on Jan. 19, 2016 as U.S. Pat. No. 9,237,891, which is a continuation-in-part patent application claiming priority under 35 U.S.C §120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/711,979, filed Feb. 28, 2007, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES THAT PRODUCE FORMED STAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT LENGTHS, which issued on Nov. 27, 2012 as U.S. Pat. No. 8,317,070, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

0002The present application is also related to the following, U.S. patent applications, which are incorporated herein by reference: <ul id="ul0001" list-style="none"><li id="ul0001-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0002" list-style="none"><li id="ul0002-0001" num="0003">(1) SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH STAPLE DRIVER THAT SUPPORTS MULTIPLE WIRE DIAMETER STAPLES, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/711,977, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,673,781;</li><li id="ul0002-0002" num="0004">(2) SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH ANVIL HAVING STAPLE FORMING POCKETS OF VARYING DEPTH, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/714,049, now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007/0194082;</li><li id="ul0002-0003" num="0005">(3) SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH MULTIPLE STACKED ACTUATOR WEDGE CAMS FOR DRIVING STAPLE DRIVERS, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/712,315, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,500,979;</li><li id="ul0002-0004" num="0006">(4) SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH STAPLE DRIVERS OF DIFFERENT HEIGHT, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/711,975, now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007/0194079; and</li><li id="ul0002-0005" num="0007">(5) STAPLE CARTRIDGES FOR FORMING STAPLES HAVING DIFFERING FORMED STAPLE HEIGHTS, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/695,359, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,464,923.</li></ul></li></ul>

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

0008The present invention relates in general to stapling instruments that are capable of applying lines of staples and, more particularly, to improvements relating to staple cartridges for use with surgical stapling instruments that are capable of applying lines of staples having differing formed staple heights to tissue while simultaneously cutting the tissue.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0009Surgical staplers have been used in the prior art to simultaneously make a longitudinal incision in tissue and apply lines of staples on opposing sides of the incision. Such instruments commonly include a pair of cooperating jaw members that, if the instrument is intended for endoscopic or laparoscopic applications, are capable of passing through a cannula passageway. One of the jaw members receives a staple cartridge having at least two laterally spaced rows of staples. The other jaw member defines an anvil having staple-forming pockets aligned with the rows of staples in the cartridge. The instrument includes a plurality of reciprocating wedges that, when driven distally, pass through openings in the staple cartridge and engage drivers supporting the staples to effect the firing of the staples toward the anvil.

0010An example of a surgical stapler suitable for endoscopic applications is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0232196 A1, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,818, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. In use, a clinician is able to close the jaw members of the stapler upon tissue to position the tissue prior to firing. Once the clinician has determined that the jaw members are properly gripping tissue, the clinician can then fire the surgical stapler, thereby severing and stapling the tissue. The simultaneous severing and stapling avoids complications that may arise when performing such actions sequentially with different surgical tools that respectively only sever or staple.

0011Whenever a transsection of tissue is across an area of varied tissue composition, it would be advantageous for the staples that are closest to the cut line to have one formed height that is less than the formed height of those staples that are farthest from the cut line. In practice, the rows of inside staples serve to provide a hemostatic barrier, while the outside rows of staples with larger formed heights provide a cinching effect where the tissue transitions from the tightly compressed hemostatic section to the non-compressed adjacent section. In other applications, it may be useful for the staples in a single line of staples to have differing formed heights. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,941,623 and 5,027,834 disclose surgical stapler and cartridge arrangements that employ staples that have different prong lengths to ultimately achieve lines of staples that have differing formed heights. Likewise, WO 2003/094747A1 discloses a surgical stapler and cartridge that has six rows of staples wherein the outer two rows of staples comprise staples that are larger than the staples employed in the inner two rows and middle rows of staples. Thus, all of these approaches require the use of different sizes of staples in the same cartridge.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0012In one general aspect, the present invention is directed to surgical stapling devices that are capable of producing staples of different formed lengths. For example, in such a device that also cuts the tissue being stapled, the inside rows of staples closest to the longitudinal incision line could have a formed height that is less than the formed height of the outer rows of staples. That way, the inside rows of staples may provide a hemostatic barrier, while the outside rows of staples with larger formed heights may provide a cinching effect where the tissue transitions from the tightly compressed hemostatic section to the non-compressed adjacent section.

0013According to various implementations, the staple cartridge may have staple drivers of different heights to product staples having different formed lengths. The staples driven by the shorter staple drivers would have longer formed lengths (assuming no other differences that would affect the formed heights of the staples). Also, the staple forming pockets in the anvil may have different depths. Staples formed in deeper pockets would tend to be longer than staples formed in shallow pockets. In addition, some of the staple forming pockets may be formed in compliant material portions of the anvil. Staples formed in such pockets would tend to be longer than staples formed in a non-compliant (or less compliant) portion of the anvil. Additionally, the channel may have internal steps that would produce staples having different formed heights. Staples formed with staple drivers starting at a lower step would have a longer formed length that stapled formed with staple drivers starting at a higher step. Also, staples with different wire diameters may be used. Thicker staples would tend to produce staples with longer formed lengths. In that connection, embodiments of the present invention are directed to staple pushers that can accommodate staples of varying wire thicknesses. Also, staples of differing materials could be used. Staples made of stronger, less compliant materials, would tend to produce longer formed staples.

0014According to other embodiments, the surgical stapling device may comprise a plurality of stacked wedge band sets. Each stacked wedge band set may comprise a number of wedge bands stacked one on another. The wedge bands may be actuated in succession in order to drive the staples in successive stages. That is, for example, in an embodiment having three wedge bands in a stack, the first wedge band may be actuated first to partially deploy the staples, the second wedge band in stack may be actuated next to begin to form the staples, and the third wedge band in the stack may be actuated last to finish the formation of the staples. To produce staples having different formed heights, the heights of the stacks (corresponding to the cumulative height of the wedge bands in the stacks) may be different, for example.

0015The techniques used to create formed staples of different heights could be used in a variety of different surgical stapling devices. For example, the stapling devices could be devices that cut the clamped tissue or devices that include no cutting instrument. The surgical staplers may be, for example, endocutters, open linear stapler devices, or circular staplers.

0016In accordance with other general aspects of various embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a staple cartridge for use with a stapling device that has a robotically controlled actuator that is selectively actuatable in an axial direction and an anvil portion that is selectively movable between open and closed positions. In various embodiments, the staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body that is supportable within the stapling device for selective confronting relationship with the anvil portion thereof when in a closed position. The cartridge body is configured to axially receive a dynamic actuation member therein that is responsive to control motions applied thereto by the robotically controlled actuator. At least one first staple driver is movably supported within the cartridge body for contact by the dynamic actuation member such that, as the dynamic actuation member is axially advanced through the cartridge body when a first control motion is applied thereto by the robotically controlled actuator, the first staple drivers are driven in a direction toward the anvil when the anvil is in the closed position. Each first staple driver defines a first staple support cradle for supporting a staple thereon. The first staple support cradle is located a first staple forming distance from a corresponding portion of the closed anvil. At least one second staple driver is movably supported within the cartridge body for contact by the dynamic actuation member such that as the dynamic actuation member is axially advanced through the cartridge body, the second staple drivers are driven in the direction toward the closed anvil. Each of the second staple drivers defines a second staple support cradle for supporting another staple thereon. The second staple support cradle is located a second staple forming distance from another portion of the closed anvil wherein the second staple forming distance differs from the first staple forming distance.

0017In accordance with other general aspects of various embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a surgical stapling device that includes a robotic system that is operable to produce a firing motion and a closing motion. The device further includes an implement portion that is responsive to the firing and closing motions from the robotic system. In various forms, the implement portion includes an elongate channel that is operably coupled to a portion of the robotic system and is configured to support a staple cartridge therein. An anvil is movably coupled to the elongate channel and has an anvil channel therein. The anvil is movable from an open position to a closed position upon application of the closing motion thereto from the robotic system. Various embodiments further include a firing device that includes a distally presented cutting edge that is longitudinally movable within the elongate channel and the anvil from a starting position to an ending position upon application of the firing motion thereto from the robotic system. The firing device has an upper portion for engaging the anvil channel and a lower portion for engaging the elongate channel during distal movement for firing. Various forms of the staple cartridge comprise a cartridge body that is sized to be supported within the elongate channel. The cartridge body has a longitudinally extending slot therein for receiving the firing device therein. The cartridge body has a non-planar deck surface that is configured to confront a staple forming portion of the anvil that has staple forming pockets therein when the anvil is in the closed position. A first plurality of inside staple drivers is axially aligned in a first row of inside staple drivers in a portion of the cartridge body that is adjacent a first side of the longitudinally extending slot. A second plurality of inside staple drivers is axially aligned in a second row of inside staple drivers in another portion of the cartridge body that is adjacent a second side of the longitudinally extending slot. The inside staple drivers are movably supported within the cartridge body for selective movement toward the anvil when the anvil is in a closed position. Each inside staple driver defines a first staple support cradle for supporting a staple thereon. Each first staple support cradle is located a first staple forming distance from a corresponding portion of the anvil when the anvil is in a closed position. A first plurality of outside staple drivers is axially aligned in a first row of outside staple drivers that are adjacent to the first row of the inside staple drivers. A second plurality of outside staple drivers is axially aligned in a second row of outside staple drivers and is adjacent to the second row of inside staple drivers. Each of the outside staple drivers is movably supported within the cartridge body for selective driving movement toward the anvil when the anvil is in the closed position. Each of the outside staple drivers defines a second staple support cradle for supporting another staple thereon. Each second staple support cradle is located a second staple forming distance from another corresponding portion of the anvil when the anvil is in the closed position. The second staple forming distance differs in magnitude from the first staple forming distance. A wedge sled is supported within the cartridge body for driving contact by the firing device and actuating contact with the first and second pluralities of the inside staple drivers as well as the first and second pluralities of outside staple drivers such that, as the firing device moves within the elongated slot in the cartridge body in a first axial direction in response to the firing motion from the robotic system, the wedge sled drives each of the inside and outside drivers towards the anvil to bring the staples supported thereon into forming contact with the anvil when the anvil is in the closed position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

0018The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate by way of example embodiments of the invention, and, together with the general description of the invention given above, and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the present invention, wherein:

0019<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> depicts a partially cut away side elevation view of a surgical stapling and severing instrument in an open position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0020<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> depicts a cross-sectional side elevation detail view along the line <b>2</b>-<b>2</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> of an end effector of the surgical stapling and severing instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0021<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> depicts an enlarged side elevation view of the firing bar of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0022<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> depicts an enlarged front view of the firing bar of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0023<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> depicts a cross-sectional side elevation detail view of an alternative end effector for the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, incorporating a firing bar that lacks a middle pin for preventing pinching of the end effector, according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0024<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> depicts a side elevational view of a handle portion of a proximal end of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with a left side removed to expose interior parts in an unclamped, unfired (“start”) position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0025<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> depicts a perspective, exploded view of the handle portion of the proximal end of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0026<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> depicts a side elevational view of the handle portion of the proximal end of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with the left side removed to expose interior parts in the closed (“clamped”) position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0027<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> depicts a side elevational view of the handle portion of proximal end of surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with the left side removed to expose interior parts in the stapled and severed (“fired”) position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0028<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> depicts a plan view of a staple cartridge installed in an end effector according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0029<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a staple cartridge according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0030<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a side view of a staple that may be employed with various embodiments of the present invention;

0031<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is a front elevational view of one inside double driver supporting two staples thereon according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0032<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is a top view of the inside double driver and staples of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0033<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14A</figref> is an elevational view of the inside double driver of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> within a portion of a staple cartridge mounted in the end effector and also illustrating a corresponding portion of the anvil when in a closed position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0034<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a right side elevational view of the inside double driver and staples of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13 and 14</figref> according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0035<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15A</figref> is another side elevational view of the inside double driver of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> wherein corresponding portions of the cartridge tray and anvil are illustrated in broken lines to depict the relationships therebetween according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0036<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> is a front elevational view of one outside single driver supporting a staple thereon according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0037<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16A</figref> is another front view of the outside single driver of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> with portions of the cartridge tray and anvil shown to illustrate the relationships therebetween according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> is a top view of the outside single driver and staple of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0039<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> is an isometric exploded view of the implement portion of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0040<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref> is a section view taken along line <b>19</b>-<b>19</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> showing the cross-sectional relationship between the firing bar, elongate channel, wedge sled, staple drivers, staples and staple cartridge according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0041<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19A</figref> is another cross-sectional view of an end effector showing the cross-sectional relationship between the firing bar, elongate channel, wedge sled, staple drivers, staples, staple cartridge and anvil according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0042<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> is a perspective view of one wedge sled according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0043<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> is a side elevational view of an inside sled cam of the wedge sled depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0044<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> is a side elevational view of an outside sled cam of the wedge sled depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0045<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref> is an isometric view of the end effector at the distal end of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with the anvil in the up or open position with the cartridge largely removed exposing a single staple driver and a double staple driver as exemplary and the wedge sled in its start position against a middle pin of the firing bar according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0046<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref> is an isometric view of the end effector at the distal end of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with the anvil in the up or open position exposing the staple cartridge and cutting edge of the firing bar according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0047<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref> is an isometric view of the distal end of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with the anvil in the up or open position with the staple cartridge completely removed and a portion of an elongate channel removed to expose a lowermost pin of the firing bar according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0048<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref> is a side elevation view in section showing a mechanical relationship between the anvil, elongate channel, and staple cartridge in the closed position of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the section generally taken along lines <b>26</b>-<b>26</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref> to expose wedge sled, staple drivers and staples but also depicting the firing bar along the longitudinal centerline according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0049<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a staple cartridge wherein an outside cam of a wedge is adjacent to an outside single driver according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0050<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a staple cartridge wherein an outside cam of a wedge sled is engaging three outside single drivers according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0051<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 29</figref> is a diagrammatic representation of lines of staples installed on each side of a cut line using a surgical stapling and severing instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0052<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref> depicts a staple formed by one inside driver according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0053<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref> depicts another staple formed by one outside driver according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0054<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref> is a diagrammatic representation of lines of staples installed on each side of a cut line using a surgical stapling and severing instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0055<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33</figref> is a diagrammatic representation of lines of staples installed on each side of a cut line using a surgical stapling and severing instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0056<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref> is a diagrammatic representation of lines of staples installed on each side of a cut line using a surgical stapling and severing instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0057<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 35</figref> is a side elevation section view of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> taken along the longitudinal centerline of the end effector in a partially closed but unclamped position gripping tissue according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0058<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36</figref> depicts a partially cut away side elevational view of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> in the closed or clamped position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0059<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37</figref> depicts a side elevation view of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> in the closed or clamped position with tissue properly compressed according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0060<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38</figref> depicts a view in centerline section of the distal end of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> in a partially fired position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0061<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref> depicts a partially cut away side elevation view of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> in a partially fired position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0062<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 40</figref> depicts a view in centerline section of the distal end of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> in a fully fired position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0063<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41</figref> is a partially cut-away side elevational view of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> in a full fired position according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0064<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 42-44</figref> depict aspects of an end effector having a sled with multiple sled cams where one sled cam is taller than another according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0065<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 45</figref> depicts aspects of an end effector with staple forming pockets having varying depths according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0066<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 46-47</figref> depict a double staple driver having staples of different pre-formation lengths according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0067<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 48</figref> depicts a side-view of an end effector having a double staple driver having different staple driver heights according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0068<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 49-50</figref> depict a side-view of an end effector having staple forming pockets of varying depths according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0069<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 51-62</figref> depict aspects of a surgical stapling device having stacks of actuatable wedge bands according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0070<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 63-69</figref> depict aspects of an open linear surgical stapling device according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0071<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 70-77</figref> depicts cross-sectional front views of an end effector according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0072<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 78-83</figref> depict staple drivers that can accommodate staple having different wire diameters according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0073<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 84-89</figref> depict a circular surgical stapling device according to various embodiments of the present invention;

0074<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 90-95</figref> depict another surgical stapling device according to embodiments of the present invention;

0075<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 96</figref> is a perspective view of one robotic controller embodiment;

0076<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 97</figref> is a perspective view of one robotic surgical arm cart/manipulator of a robotic system operably supporting a plurality of surgical tool embodiments of the present invention;

0077<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 98</figref> is a side view of the robotic surgical arm cart/manipulator depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 97</figref>;

0078<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 99</figref> is a perspective view of an exemplary cart structure with positioning linkages for operably supporting robotic manipulators that may be used with various surgical tool embodiments of the present invention;

0079<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 100</figref> is a perspective view of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0080<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 101</figref> is an exploded assembly view of an adapter and tool holder arrangement for attaching various surgical tool embodiments to a robotic system;

0081<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 102</figref> is a side view of the adapter shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 101</figref>;

0082<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 103</figref> is a bottom view of the adapter shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 101</figref>;

0083<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 104</figref> is a top view of the adapter of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 101 and 102</figref>;

0084<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref> is a partial bottom perspective view of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 100</figref>;

0085<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 106</figref> is a partial exploded view of a portion of an articulatable surgical end effector embodiment of the present invention;

0086<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 107</figref> is a perspective view of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref> with the tool mounting housing removed;

0087<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 108</figref> is a rear perspective view of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref> with the tool mounting housing removed;

0088<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 109</figref> is a front perspective view of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref> with the tool mounting housing removed;

0089<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 110</figref> is a partial exploded perspective view of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>;

0090<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 111</figref> is a partial cross-sectional side view of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>;

0091<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 112</figref> is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the surgical tool depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 111</figref>;

0092<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 113</figref> is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the tool mounting portion of the surgical tool embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>;

0093<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 114</figref> is an enlarged exploded perspective view of a portion of the tool mounting portion of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 113</figref>;

0094<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 115</figref> is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the elongated shaft assembly of the surgical tool of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>;

0095<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 116</figref> is a side view of a half portion of a closure nut embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0096<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 117</figref> is a perspective view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0097<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 118</figref> is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 117</figref> with the anvil in the open position and the closure clutch assembly in a neutral position;

0098<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 119</figref> is another cross-sectional side view of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 118</figref> with the clutch assembly engaged in a closure position;

0099<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 120</figref> is another cross-sectional side view of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 118</figref> with the clutch assembly engaged in a firing position;

0100<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 121</figref> is a top view of a portion of a tool mounting portion embodiment of the present invention;

0101<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 122</figref> is a perspective view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0102<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 123</figref> is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 122</figref> with the anvil in the open position;

0103<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 124</figref> is another cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 122</figref> with the anvil in the closed position;

0104<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 125</figref> is a perspective view of a closure drive nut and portion of a knife bar embodiment of the present invention;

0105<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 126</figref> is a top view of another tool mounting portion embodiment of the present invention;

0106<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 127</figref> is a perspective view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0107<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 128</figref> is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 127</figref> with the anvil in the open position;

0108<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 129</figref> is another cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 128</figref> with the anvil in the closed position;

0109<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 130</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a mounting collar embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention showing the knife bar and distal end portion of the closure drive shaft;

0110<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 131</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the mounting collar embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 130</figref>;

0111<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 132</figref> is a top view of another tool mounting portion embodiment of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0112<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 132A</figref> is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a gear arrangement of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0113<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 132B</figref> is a cross-sectional perspective view of the gear arrangement shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 132A</figref>;

0114<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 133</figref> is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention employing a pressure sensor arrangement with the anvil in the open position;

0115<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 134</figref> is another cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 133</figref> with the anvil in the closed position;

0116<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 135</figref> is a side view of a portion of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention in relation to a tool holder portion of a robotic system with some of the components thereof shown in cross-section;

0117<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 136</figref> is a side view of a portion of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention in relation to a tool holder portion of a robotic system with some of the components thereof shown in cross-section;

0118<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 137</figref> is a side view of a portion of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention with some of the components thereof shown in cross-section;

0119<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 138</figref> is a side view of a portion of another surgical end effector embodiment of a portion of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention with some components thereof shown in cross-section;

0120<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 139</figref> is a side view of a portion of another surgical end effector embodiment of a portion of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention with some components thereof shown in cross-section;

0121<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 140</figref> is a side view of a portion of another surgical end effector embodiment of a portion of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention with some components thereof shown in cross-section;

0122<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 141</figref> is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the end effector of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 140</figref>;

0123<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 142</figref> is another cross-sectional view of a portion of the end effector of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 140 and 141</figref>;

0124<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 143</figref> is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention with the anvil in the open position;

0125<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 144</figref> is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 143</figref>;

0126<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 145</figref> is another cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 143 and 144</figref> with the anvil thereof in the closed position;

0127<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 146</figref> is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical end effector and elongated shaft assembly of the surgical tool embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 143-145</figref>;

0128<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 147</figref> is a top view of a tool mounting portion embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0129<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 148</figref> is a perspective assembly view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0130<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 149</figref> is a front perspective view of a disposable loading unit arrangement that may be employed with various surgical tool embodiments of the present invention;

0131<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 150</figref> is a rear perspective view of the disposable loading unit of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 149</figref>;

0132<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 151</figref> is a bottom perspective view of the disposable loading unit of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 149 and 150</figref>;

0133<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 152</figref> is a bottom perspective view of another disposable loading unit embodiment that may be employed with various surgical tool embodiments of the present invention;

0134<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 153</figref> is an exploded perspective view of a mounting portion of a disposable loading unit depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 149-151</figref>;

0135<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 154</figref> is a perspective view of a portion of a disposable loading unit and an elongated shaft assembly embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention with the disposable loading unit in a first position;

0136<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 155</figref> is another perspective view of a portion of the disposable loading unit and elongated shaft assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 154</figref> with the disposable loading unit in a second position;

0137<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 156</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the disposable loading unit and elongated shaft assembly embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 154 and 154</figref>;

0138<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 157</figref> is another cross-sectional view of the disposable loading unit and elongated shaft assembly embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 154-156</figref>;

0139<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 158</figref> is a partial exploded perspective view of a portion of another disposable loading unit embodiment and an elongated shaft assembly embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0140<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 159</figref> is a partial exploded perspective view of a portion of another disposable loading unit embodiment and an elongated shaft assembly embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0141<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 160</figref> is another partial exploded perspective view of the disposable loading unit embodiment and an elongated shaft assembly embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 159</figref>;

0142<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 161</figref> is a top view of another tool mounting portion embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0143<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 162</figref> is a side view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention with some of the components thereof shown in cross-section and in relation to a robotic tool holder of a robotic system;

0144<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 163</figref> is an exploded assembly view of a surgical end effector embodiment that may be used in connection with various surgical tool embodiments of the present invention;

0145<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 164</figref> is a side view of a portion of a cable-driven system for driving a cutting instrument employed in various surgical end effector embodiments of the present invention;

0146<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 165</figref> is a top view of the cable-driven system and cutting instrument of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 164</figref>;

0147<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 166</figref> is a top view of a cable drive transmission embodiment of the present invention in a closure position;

0148<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 167</figref> is another top view of the cable drive transmission embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 166</figref> in a neutral position;

0149<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 168</figref> is another top view of the cable drive transmission embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 166 and 167</figref> in a firing position;

0150<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 169</figref> is a perspective view of the cable drive transmission embodiment in the position depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 166</figref>;

0151<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 170</figref> is a perspective view of the cable drive transmission embodiment in the position depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 167</figref>;

0152<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 171</figref> is a perspective view of the cable drive transmission embodiment in the position depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 168</figref>;

0153<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 172</figref> is a perspective view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0154<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 173</figref> is a side view of a portion of another cable-driven system embodiment for driving a cutting instrument employed in various surgical end effector embodiments of the present invention;

0155<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 174</figref> is a top view of the cable-driven system embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 173</figref>;

0156<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 175</figref> is a top view of a tool mounting portion embodiment of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0157<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 176</figref> is a top cross-sectional view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0158<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 177</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a surgical end effector embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0159<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 178</figref> is a cross-sectional end view of the surgical end effector of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 177</figref> taken along line <b>178</b>-<b>178</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 177</figref>;

0160<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 179</figref> is a perspective view of the surgical end effector of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 177 and 178</figref> with portions thereof shown in cross-section;

0161<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 180</figref> is a side view of a portion of the surgical end effector of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 177-179</figref>;

0162<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 181</figref> is a perspective view of a sled assembly embodiment of various surgical tool embodiments of the present invention;

0163<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 182</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the sled assembly embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 181</figref> and a portion of the elongated channel of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 180</figref>;

0164<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 183-188</figref> diagrammatically depict the sequential firing of staples in a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0165<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 189</figref> is a partial perspective view of a portion of a surgical end effector embodiment of the present invention;

0166<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 190</figref> is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a surgical end effector embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0167<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 191</figref> is another partial cross-sectional perspective view of the surgical end effector embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 190</figref> with a sled assembly axially advancing therethrough;

0168<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 192</figref> is a perspective view of another sled assembly embodiment of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0169<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 193</figref> is a partial top view of a portion of the surgical end effector embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 190 and 191</figref> with the sled assembly axially advancing therethrough;

0170<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 194</figref> is another partial top view of the surgical end effector embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 193</figref> with the top surface of the surgical staple cartridge omitted for clarity;

0171<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 195</figref> is a partial cross-sectional side view of a rotary driver embodiment and staple pusher embodiment of the surgical end effector depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 190 and 191</figref>;

0172<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 196</figref> is a perspective view of an automated reloading system embodiment of the present invention with a surgical end effector in extractive engagement with the extraction system thereof;

0173<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 197</figref> is another perspective view of the automated reloading system embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 196</figref>;

0174<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 198</figref> is a cross-sectional elevational view of the automated reloading system embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 196 and 197</figref>;

0175<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 199</figref> is another cross-sectional elevational view of the automated reloading system embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 196-198</figref> with the extraction system thereof removing a spent surgical staple cartridge from the surgical end effector;

0176<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 200</figref> is another cross-sectional elevational view of the automated reloading system embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 196-199</figref> illustrating the loading of a new surgical staple cartridge into a surgical end effector;

0177<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 201</figref> is a perspective view of another automated reloading system embodiment of the present invention with some components shown in cross-section;

0178<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 202</figref> is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the automated reloading system embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 201</figref>;

0179<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 203</figref> is another exploded perspective view of the portion of the automated reloading system embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 202</figref>;

0180<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 204</figref> is a cross-sectional elevational view of the automated reloading system embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 201-203</figref>;

0181<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 205</figref> is a cross-sectional view of an orientation tube embodiment supporting a disposable loading unit therein;

0182<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 206</figref> is a perspective view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0183<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 207</figref> is a partial perspective view of an articulation joint embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0184<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 208</figref> is a perspective view of a closure tube embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0185<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 209</figref> is a perspective view of the closure tube embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 208</figref> assembled on the articulation joint embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 207</figref>;

0186<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref> is a top view of a portion of a tool mounting portion embodiment of a surgical tool embodiment of the present invention;

0187<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 211</figref> is a perspective view of an articulation drive assembly embodiment employed in the tool mounting portion embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>;

0188<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 212</figref> is a perspective view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention; and

0189<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 213</figref> is a perspective view of another surgical tool embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0190Applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications that were filed on Mar. 12, 2014 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties: <ul id="ul0003" list-style="none"><li id="ul0003-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0004" list-style="none"><li id="ul0004-0001" num="0191">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,259, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH WIRELESS COMMUNICATION BETWEEN A CONTROL UNIT OF A ROBOTIC SYSTEM AND REMOTE SENSOR, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,684,253;</li><li id="ul0004-0002" num="0192">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,210, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED DISPOSABLE MOTOR DRIVEN LOADING UNIT, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,752,749;</li><li id="ul0004-0003" num="0193">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,194, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED ENDOSCOPIC ACCESSORY CHANNEL, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,992,422;</li><li id="ul0004-0004" num="0194">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,253, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0295269;</li><li id="ul0004-0005" num="0195">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,190, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED MOTORIZED CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,179,912;</li><li id="ul0004-0006" num="0196">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,223, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED SHAFT BASED ROTARY DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,931,682;</li><li id="ul0004-0007" num="0197">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,263, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0295295;</li><li id="ul0004-0008" num="0198">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,272, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH FORCE FEEDBACK CAPABILITIES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0290856;</li><li id="ul0004-0009" num="0199">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,246, entitled ROBOTICALLY-DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH E-BEAM DRIVER, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,060,770;</li><li id="ul0004-0010" num="0200">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,241, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,072,535.</li></ul></li></ul>

0201Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope of the various embodiments of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

0202Uses of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment”, or “in an embodiment”, or the like, throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics of one or more embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

0203Turning to the figures, wherein like numerals denote like components throughout the several views, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref> depict one embodiment of a surgical stapling and severing instrument <b>10</b> that is capable of practicing the unique benefits of the present invention. It should be recognized, however, that the unique and novel aspects of the present invention may be advantageously employed in connection with a variety of other staplers and stapler instruments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of protection afforded to the various embodiments of the present invention should not be limited to use only with the specific type of surgical stapling and severing instruments described herein.

0204As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, the surgical stapling and severing instrument <b>10</b> incorporates an end effector <b>12</b> having an actuator or E-beam firing mechanism (“firing bar”) <b>14</b> that advantageously controls the spacing of the end effector <b>12</b>. In particular, an elongate channel <b>16</b> and a pivotally translatable anvil <b>18</b> are maintained at a spacing that assures effective stapling and severing. The problems are avoided associated with varying amounts of tissue being captured in the end effector <b>12</b>.

0205It will be appreciated that the terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to a clinician gripping a handle of an instrument. Thus, the end effector <b>12</b> is distal with respect to the more proximal handle portion <b>20</b>. It will be further appreciated that for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical” and “horizontal” are used herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and absolute.

0206The surgical and stapling and severing instrument <b>10</b> includes a handle portion <b>20</b> that is connected to an implement portion <b>22</b>, the latter further comprising a shaft <b>23</b> distally terminating in the end effector <b>12</b>. The handle portion <b>20</b> includes a pistol grip <b>24</b> toward which a closure trigger <b>26</b> is pivotally drawn by the clinician to cause clamping, or closing, of the anvil <b>18</b> toward the elongate channel <b>16</b> of the end effector <b>12</b>. A firing trigger <b>28</b> is farther outboard of the closure trigger <b>26</b> and is pivotally drawn by the clinician to cause the stapling and severing of clamped tissue in the end effector <b>12</b>.

0207In practice, closure trigger <b>26</b> is actuated first. Once the clinician is satisfied with the positioning of the end effector <b>12</b>, the clinician may draw back the closure trigger <b>26</b> to its fully closed, locked position proximate to the pistol grip <b>24</b>. Then, the firing trigger <b>28</b> is actuated. The firing trigger <b>28</b> springedly returns when the clinician removes pressure. A release button <b>30</b> when depressed on the proximal end of the handle portion <b>20</b> releases any locked closure trigger <b>26</b>.

0208A closure sleeve <b>32</b> encloses a frame <b>34</b>, which in turn encloses a firing drive member <b>36</b> that is positioned by the firing trigger <b>28</b>. The frame <b>34</b> connects the handle portion <b>20</b> to the end effector <b>12</b>. With the closure sleeve <b>32</b> withdrawn proximally by the closure trigger <b>26</b> as depicted, the anvil <b>18</b> springedly opens, pivoting away from the elongate channel <b>16</b> and translating proximally with the closure sleeve <b>32</b>. The elongate channel <b>16</b> receives a staple cartridge <b>37</b>.

0209With particular reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2-4</figref>, the firing bar <b>14</b> includes three vertically spaced pins that control the spacing of the end effector <b>12</b> during firing. In particular, an upper pin <b>38</b> is staged to enter an anvil pocket <b>40</b> near the pivot between the anvil <b>18</b> and elongate channel <b>16</b>. When fired with the anvil <b>18</b> closed, the upper pin <b>38</b> advances distally within a longitudinal anvil slot <b>42</b> extending distally through anvil <b>18</b>. Any minor upward deflection in the anvil <b>18</b> is overcome by a downward force imparted by the upper pin <b>38</b>. Firing bar <b>14</b> also includes a lowermost pin, or firing bar cap, <b>44</b> that upwardly engages a channel slot <b>45</b> in the elongate channel <b>16</b>, thereby cooperating with the upper pin <b>38</b> to draw the anvil <b>18</b> and the elongate channel <b>16</b> slightly closer together in the event of excess tissue clamped therebetween. The firing bar <b>14</b> advantageously includes a middle pin <b>46</b> that passes through a firing drive slot <b>47</b> formed in a lower surface of the cartridge <b>300</b> and an upward surface of the elongate channel <b>16</b>, thereby driving the staples therein as described below. The middle pin <b>46</b>, by sliding against the elongate channel <b>16</b>, advantageously resists any tendency for the end effector <b>12</b> to be pinched shut at its distal end. To illustrate an advantage of the middle pin <b>46</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> depicts an alternative end effector <b>12</b>′ that lacks a middle pin on a firing bar <b>14</b>′. In this depiction, the end effector <b>12</b>′ is allowed to pinch shut at its distal end, which tends to impair desired staple formation.

0210Returning to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2-4</figref>, a distally presented cutting edge <b>48</b> between the upper and middle pins <b>38</b>, <b>46</b> on the firing bar <b>14</b> traverses through a proximally presented, vertical slot <b>49</b> in the cartridge <b>37</b> to sever clamped tissue. The affirmative positioning of the firing bar <b>14</b> with regard to the elongate channel <b>16</b> and anvil <b>18</b> assure that an effective cut is performed. The affirmative vertical spacing provided by the E-Beam firing bar <b>14</b> is suitable for the limited size available for endoscopic devices. Moreover, the E-Beam firing bar <b>14</b> enables fabrication of an anvil <b>15</b> with a camber imparting a vertical deflection at its distal end, similar to the position depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>. This cambered anvil <b>15</b> advantageously assists in achieving the desired gap in the end effector <b>12</b> even with an anvil <b>15</b> having a reduced thickness, which may be more suited to the size limitations of an endoscopic device.

0211With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6-9</figref>, the handle portion <b>20</b> is comprised of first and second base sections <b>50</b> and <b>52</b>, which are molded from a polymeric material such as a glass-filled polycarbonate. The first base section <b>50</b> is provided with a plurality of cylindrically-shaped pins <b>54</b>. The second base section <b>52</b> includes a plurality of extending members <b>56</b>, each having a hexagonal-shaped opening <b>58</b>. The cylindrically-shaped pins <b>54</b> are received within the hexagonal-shaped openings <b>58</b> and are frictionally held therein for maintaining the first and second base sections <b>50</b> and <b>52</b> in assembly.

0212A rotating knob <b>60</b> has a bore <b>62</b> extending completely through it for engaging and rotating the implement portion <b>22</b> about its longitudinal axis. The rotating knob <b>60</b> includes an inwardly protruding boss <b>64</b> extending along at least a portion of the bore <b>62</b>. The protruding boss <b>64</b> is received within a longitudinal slot <b>66</b> formed at a proximal portion of the closure sleeve <b>32</b> such that rotation of the rotating knob <b>60</b> effects rotation of the closure sleeve <b>32</b>. It will be appreciated that the boss <b>64</b> further extends through frame <b>34</b> and into contact with a portion of the firing drive member <b>36</b> to effect their rotation as well. Thus, the end effector <b>12</b> (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6-9</figref>) rotates with the rotating knob <b>60</b>.

0213A proximal end <b>68</b> of the frame <b>34</b> passes proximally through the rotating knob <b>60</b> and is provided with a circumferential notch <b>70</b> that is engaged by opposing channel securement members <b>72</b> extending respectively from the base sections <b>50</b> and <b>52</b>. Only the channel securement member <b>72</b> of the second base section <b>52</b> is shown. The channel securement members <b>72</b>, extending from the base sections <b>50</b>, <b>52</b> serve to secure the frame <b>34</b> to the handle portion <b>20</b> such that the frame <b>34</b> does not move longitudinally relative to the handle portion <b>20</b>.

0214The closure trigger <b>26</b> has a handle section <b>74</b>, a gear segment section <b>76</b>, and an intermediate section <b>78</b>. A bore <b>80</b> extends through the intermediate section <b>78</b>. A cylindrical support member <b>82</b> extending from the second base section <b>52</b> passes through the bore <b>80</b> for pivotably mounting the closure trigger <b>26</b> on the handle portion <b>20</b>. A second cylindrical support member <b>83</b> extending from the second base section <b>52</b> passes through a bore <b>81</b> of firing trigger <b>28</b> for pivotally mounting on the handle portion <b>20</b>. A hexagonal opening <b>84</b> is provided in the cylindrical support member <b>83</b> for receiving a securement pin (not shown) extending from the first base section <b>50</b>.

0215A closure yoke <b>86</b> is housed within the handle portion <b>20</b> for reciprocating movement therein and serves to transfer motion from the closure trigger <b>26</b> to the closure sleeve <b>32</b>. Support members <b>88</b> extending from the second base section <b>52</b> and securement member <b>72</b>, which extends through a recess <b>89</b> in the yoke <b>86</b>, support the yoke <b>86</b> within the handle portion <b>20</b>.

0216A proximal end <b>90</b> of the closure sleeve <b>32</b> is provided with a flange <b>92</b> that is snap-fitted into a receiving recess <b>94</b> formed in a distal end <b>96</b> of the yoke <b>86</b>. A proximal end <b>98</b> of the yoke <b>86</b> has a gear rack <b>100</b> that is engaged by the gear segment section <b>76</b> of the closure trigger <b>26</b>. When the closure trigger <b>26</b> is moved toward the pistol grip <b>24</b> of the handle portion <b>20</b>, the yoke <b>86</b> and, hence, the closure sleeve <b>32</b> move distally, compressing a spring <b>102</b> that biases the yoke <b>86</b> proximally. Distal movement of the closure sleeve <b>32</b> effects pivotal translation movement of the anvil <b>18</b> distally and toward the elongate channel <b>16</b> of the end effector <b>12</b> and proximal movement effects closing, as discussed below.

0217The closure trigger <b>26</b> is forward biased to an open position by a front surface <b>130</b> interacting with an engaging surface <b>128</b> of the firing trigger <b>28</b>. Clamp first hook <b>104</b> that pivots top to rear in the handle portion <b>20</b> about a pin <b>106</b> restrains movement of the firing trigger <b>28</b> toward the pistol grip <b>24</b> until the closure trigger <b>26</b> is clamped to its closed position. Hook <b>104</b> restrains firing trigger <b>28</b> motion by engaging a lockout pin <b>107</b> in firing trigger <b>28</b>. The hook <b>104</b> is also in contact with the closure trigger <b>26</b>. In particular, a forward projection <b>108</b> of the hook <b>104</b> engages a member <b>110</b> on the intermediate section <b>78</b> of the closure trigger <b>26</b>, the member <b>100</b> being outward of the bore <b>80</b> toward the handle section <b>74</b>. Hook <b>104</b> is biased toward contact with member <b>110</b> of the closure trigger <b>26</b> and engagement with lockout pin <b>107</b> in firing trigger <b>28</b> by a release spring <b>112</b>. As the closure trigger <b>26</b> is depressed, the hook <b>104</b> is moved top to rear, compressing the release spring <b>112</b> that is captured between a rearward projection <b>114</b> on the hook <b>104</b> and a forward projection <b>116</b> on the release button <b>30</b>. As the yoke <b>86</b> moves distally in response to proximal movement of the closure trigger <b>26</b>, an upper latch arm <b>118</b> of the release button <b>30</b> moves along an upper surface <b>120</b> on the yoke <b>86</b> until dropping into an upwardly presented recess <b>122</b> in a proximal, lower portion of the yoke <b>86</b>. The release spring <b>112</b> urges the release button <b>30</b> outward, which pivots the upper latch arm <b>118</b> downwardly into engagement with the upwardly presented recess <b>122</b>, thereby locking the closure trigger <b>26</b> in a tissue clamping position, such as depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0218The latch arm <b>118</b> can be moved out of the recess <b>122</b> to release the anvil <b>18</b> by pushing the release button <b>30</b> inward. Specifically, the upper latch arm <b>118</b> pivots upward about pin <b>123</b> of the second base section <b>52</b>. The yoke <b>86</b> is then permitted to move proximally in response to return movement of the closure trigger <b>26</b>.

0219A firing trigger return spring <b>124</b> is located within the handle portion <b>20</b> with one end attached to pin <b>106</b> of the second base section <b>52</b> and the other end attached to a pin <b>126</b> on the firing trigger <b>28</b>. The firing return spring <b>124</b> applies a return force to the pin <b>126</b> for biasing the firing trigger <b>28</b> in a direction away from the pistol grip <b>24</b> of the handle portion <b>20</b>. The closure trigger <b>26</b> is also biased away from pistol grip <b>24</b> by engaging surface <b>128</b> of firing trigger <b>28</b> biasing front surface <b>130</b> of closure trigger <b>26</b>.

0220As the closure trigger <b>26</b> is moved toward the pistol grip <b>24</b>, its front surface <b>130</b> engages with the engaging surface <b>128</b> on the firing trigger <b>28</b> causing the firing trigger <b>28</b> to move to its “firing” position. When in its firing position, the firing trigger <b>28</b> is located at an angle of approximately 45° to the pistol grip <b>24</b>. After staple firing, the spring <b>124</b> causes the firing trigger <b>28</b> to return to its initial position. During the return movement of the firing trigger <b>28</b>, its engaging surface <b>128</b> pushes against the front surface <b>130</b> of the closure trigger <b>26</b> causing the closure trigger <b>26</b> to return to its initial position. A stop member <b>132</b> extends from the second base section <b>52</b> to prevent the closure trigger <b>26</b> from rotating beyond its initial position.

0221The surgical stapling and severing instrument <b>10</b> additionally includes a reciprocating section <b>134</b>, a multiplier <b>136</b> and a drive member <b>138</b>. The reciprocating section <b>134</b> comprises a wedge sled in the implement portion <b>22</b> (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6-9</figref>) and a metal drive rod <b>140</b>. The drive member <b>138</b> includes first and second gear racks <b>141</b> and <b>142</b>. A first notch <b>144</b> is provided on the drive member <b>138</b> intermediate the first and second gear racks <b>141</b>, <b>142</b>. During return movement of the firing trigger <b>28</b>, a tooth <b>146</b> on the firing trigger <b>28</b> engages with the first notch <b>144</b> for returning the drive member <b>138</b> to its initial position after staple firing. A second notch <b>148</b> is located at a proximal end of the metal drive rod <b>140</b> for locking the metal drive rod <b>140</b> to the upper latch arm <b>118</b> of the release button <b>30</b> in its unfired position. The multiplier <b>136</b> comprises first and second integral pinion gears <b>150</b> and <b>152</b>. The first integral pinion gear <b>150</b> is engaged with a first gear rack <b>154</b> provided on the metal drive rod <b>140</b>. The second integral pinion gear <b>152</b> is engaged with the first gear rack <b>141</b> on the drive member <b>138</b>. The first integral pinion gear <b>150</b> has a first diameter and the second integral pinion gear <b>152</b> has a second diameter which is smaller than the first diameter.

0222<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6, 8 and 9</figref> depict respectively the handle portion <b>20</b> in the start position (open and unfired), a clamped position (closed and unfired) and a fired position. The firing trigger <b>28</b> is provided with a gear segment section <b>156</b>. The gear segment section <b>156</b> engages with the second gear rack <b>142</b> on the drive member <b>138</b> such that motion of the firing trigger <b>28</b> causes the drive member <b>138</b> to move back and forth between a first drive position, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, and a second drive position, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>. In order to prevent staple firing before tissue clamping has occurred, the upper latch arm <b>118</b> on the release button <b>39</b> is engaged with the second notch <b>148</b> on the drive member <b>138</b> such that the metal drive rod <b>140</b> is locked in its proximal-most position, as depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>. When the upper latch arm <b>118</b> falls into the recess <b>122</b>, the upper latch arm <b>118</b> disengages with the second notch <b>148</b> to permit distal movement of the metal drive rod <b>140</b>, as depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>.

0223Because the first gear rack <b>141</b> on the drive member <b>138</b> and the gear rack <b>154</b> on the metal drive rod <b>140</b> are engaged with the multiplier <b>136</b>, movement of the firing trigger <b>28</b> causes the metal drive rod <b>140</b> to reciprocate between a first reciprocating position, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, and a second reciprocating position, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>. Since the diameter of the first pinion gear <b>150</b> is greater than the diameter of the second pinion gear <b>152</b>, the multiplier <b>136</b> moves the reciprocating section <b>134</b> a greater distance than the drive member <b>138</b> is moved by the firing trigger <b>28</b>. The diameters of the first and second pinion gears <b>150</b> and <b>152</b> may be changed to permit the length of the stroke of the firing trigger <b>28</b> and the force required to move it to be varied. It will be appreciated that the handle portion <b>20</b> is illustrative and that other actuation mechanisms may be employed. For instance, the closing and firing motions may be generated by automated means.

0224One embodiment of an end effector <b>12</b> of the surgical stapling and severing instrument <b>10</b> is depicted in further detail in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18, 19, and 23-26</figref>. As described above, the handle portion <b>20</b> produces separate and distinct closing and firing motions that actuate the end effector <b>12</b>. The end effector <b>12</b> advantageously maintains the clinical flexibility of this separate and distinct closing and firing (i.e., stapling and severing). In addition, the end effector <b>12</b> introduces the aforementioned ability to affirmatively maintain the closed spacing during firing after the clinician positions and clamps the tissue. Both features procedurally and structurally enhance the ability of the surgical stapling and severing instrument <b>10</b> by ensuring adequate spacing for instances where an otherwise inadequate amount of tissue is clamped and to enhance the clamping in instances where an otherwise excessive amount of tissue has been clamped.

0225<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> depicts a staple cartridge embodiment <b>300</b> of the present invention installed in the end effector <b>12</b> with the firing bar <b>14</b> in its unfired, proximal position. The staple cartridge <b>300</b> has a cartridge body <b>302</b> that is divided by an elongated slot <b>310</b> that extends from a proximal end <b>304</b> of the cartridge <b>300</b> towards a tapered outer tip <b>306</b>. A plurality of staple-receiving channels <b>320</b><i>a</i>-<b>320</b><i>f </i>are formed within the staple cartridge body <b>302</b> and are arranged in six laterally spaced longitudinal rows <b>500</b>, <b>502</b>, <b>504</b>, <b>506</b>, <b>508</b>, <b>510</b>, with three rows on each side of the elongated slot <b>310</b>. Positioned within the staple-receiving channels <b>320</b><i>a</i>-<b>320</b><i>f </i>are the staples <b>222</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10 and 11</figref>.

0226The cartridge <b>300</b> further includes four laterally spaced longitudinal rows of staple drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b</i>, <b>370</b><i>a</i>, and <b>370</b><i>b </i>as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>. The “first” inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>a </i>are slidably mounted within corresponding channels <b>320</b><i>b </i>and <b>320</b><i>c </i>such that each driver <b>330</b><i>a </i>supports two staples <b>222</b>, one in a channel <b>320</b><i>b </i>and one in a channel <b>320</b><i>c</i>. Likewise, the “second” inside drivers <b>330</b><i>b </i>are slidably mounted within channels <b>320</b><i>d </i>and <b>320</b><i>e </i>such that each driver <b>330</b><i>b </i>supports two staples <b>222</b>, one in a channel <b>320</b><i>d </i>and one in a channel <b>320</b><i>e</i>. The “outside” drivers <b>370</b><i>a </i>and <b>370</b><i>b </i>are slidably mounted within the staple-receiving channels <b>320</b><i>a </i>and <b>320</b><i>f</i>, respectively. Each of the outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a </i>and <b>370</b><i>b </i>supports a single staple <b>222</b>. Drivers <b>370</b><i>a </i>are referred to herein as “first” outside drivers and drivers <b>370</b><i>b </i>are referred to herein as “second” outside drivers.

0227<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> illustrates a staple <b>222</b> that may be used in connection with the various embodiments of the present invention. The staple <b>222</b> includes a main portion <b>223</b> and two prongs <b>225</b>. The prongs <b>225</b> each have a length “P” and the main portion has a width “W”. The reader will appreciate that a variety of different types of staples may be employed. For example, for a vascular staple, “P” may be approximately 0.102 inches; for a regular staple, “P” may be approximately 0.134 inches; and for a thick tissue staple, “P” may be approximately 0.160 inches. “W” may be approximately 0.012 inches. Other sizes of staples <b>222</b> may be employed in the manners discussed below.

0228The inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>a </i>located on one side of the elongated slot <b>310</b> are referred to herein as “first” inside staple drivers and the inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>b </i>located on the other side of the elongated slot <b>310</b> are referred to herein as “second” inside staple drivers. As will be discussed in further detail below, in one embodiment, the second inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>b </i>are identical to the first inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, except for their orientation in their respective channels in the cartridge body <b>302</b>.

0229<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13-15</figref> illustrate one embodiment of a “first” inside double driver <b>330</b><i>a </i>for supporting and driving staples <b>222</b>. As can be seen in those Figures, the staple driver <b>330</b><i>a </i>has a primary driver portion <b>340</b> and a secondary driver portion <b>350</b> that is connected to the first primary portion <b>340</b> by a central base member <b>360</b>. The primary driver portion <b>340</b> has a primary driver base <b>342</b> that has a groove <b>343</b> therein adapted to mate with a corresponding vertically extending tongue (not shown) in the cartridge body <b>302</b> for guiding and stabilizing the driver <b>330</b><i>a </i>as it moves within its respective channel. The primary driver portion <b>340</b> further has a first forward support column <b>344</b> and a first rearward support column <b>346</b> protruding upward from the first driver base <b>342</b>. The first forward support column <b>344</b> has a first forward staple-receiving groove <b>345</b> therein and the first rearward support column <b>346</b> has a first rearwardly staple-receiving groove <b>347</b> therein. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13-15</figref>. The first forward support column <b>344</b> and the first rearward support column <b>346</b> are spaced from each other and collectively form a first staple cradle <b>348</b> for supporting the main portion <b>223</b> of the staple <b>222</b> therein in an upright position (i.e., prongs facing the anvil). Similarly, the secondary driver portion <b>350</b> has a secondary driver base <b>352</b> and a secondary forward support column <b>354</b> and a secondary rearward support column <b>356</b> protruding out from the second driver base <b>352</b>. The secondary forward support column <b>354</b> has a secondary forward staple-receiving groove <b>355</b> therein and the secondary rearward support column <b>356</b> has a secondary rearward staple-receiving groove <b>357</b> therein. The secondary forward support column <b>354</b> and the secondary rearward support column <b>356</b> are spaced from each other and collectively form a secondary staple cradle <b>358</b> for supporting the main portion <b>223</b> of another staple <b>222</b> therein.

0230As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13 and 15</figref>, the central base member <b>360</b> has an angled rearwardly facing edge <b>362</b> adapted to be engaged by a corresponding sled cam as will be discussed in further detail below. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13 and 14</figref>, in this embodiment, the secondary forward support column <b>354</b> of the secondary driver portion is oriented relative to the first rearward support column <b>346</b> such that the staple <b>222</b> that is supported in the secondary staple cradle <b>358</b> is longitudinally offset from the staple <b>222</b> in the first staple cradle <b>348</b>. The reader will appreciate that the first inside drivers <b>330</b><i>a </i>are each installed in one orientation into a corresponding pair of channels <b>320</b><i>b </i>and <b>320</b><i>c </i>located on one side of the elongated slot <b>310</b> in the cartridge body <b>302</b>. The second inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>b </i>(located on the opposite side of the elongated slot <b>310</b> from the first inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>) comprise inside drivers <b>330</b><i>a </i>rotated 180 degrees so that their respective angled surfaces <b>363</b> face towards the proximal end <b>304</b> of the cartridge <b>300</b> to enable them to be installed in pairs of corresponding channels <b>320</b><i>d </i>and <b>320</b><i>e</i>. Thus, in this embodiment, only one inside driver configuration is employed which thereby eliminates the need for two different inside staple driver configurations for channels on each side of the elongated slot <b>310</b>.

0231<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16 and 17</figref> illustrate one embodiment of a “first” outside staple driver <b>370</b><i>a</i>. As can be seen in those Figures, a first outside staple driver <b>370</b><i>a </i>has a second base <b>372</b> that has an angled rearwardly facing portion <b>374</b>. Protruding upward from the second base <b>372</b> is a second forward support column <b>375</b> that has a second forward staple-receiving groove <b>376</b> therein. A second rearward support column <b>377</b> also protrudes upward from the second base <b>372</b> in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the second forward support column <b>375</b>. The second rearward support column <b>377</b> has a second rearward staple-receiving groove <b>378</b> therein. The support columns <b>375</b>, <b>377</b> collectively form a second staple cradle <b>379</b> that is configured to support a staple <b>222</b> therein in an upright position as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16 and 17</figref>. The staple drivers <b>370</b><i>a </i>also have a laterally protruding rib <b>371</b> which is received in a corresponding groove (not shown) in the cartridge body <b>302</b> for guiding and stabilizing the driver <b>370</b><i>a </i>as it moves within its respective channel.

0232The reader will appreciate that a first outside driver <b>370</b><i>a </i>is installed in one orientation into a corresponding channel <b>320</b><i>a </i>on one side of the elongated slot <b>310</b>. A second outside staple driver <b>370</b><i>b </i>(to be located on the opposite side of the elongated slot <b>310</b> from the first outside staple drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>) comprises an outside driver <b>370</b><i>a </i>rotated 180 degrees so that the angled surface <b>374</b>′ thereon faces toward the proximal end <b>304</b> of the cartridge <b>300</b> to enable it to be installed in a corresponding channel <b>320</b><i>f </i>in the cartridge body <b>302</b>. Thus, in this embodiment, only one outside staple driver configuration is employed which avoids the need for two different outside staple driver configurations for channels on each side of the elongated slot <b>310</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 19 and 19A</figref> illustrate in cross-section one embodiment of a staple cartridge of the present invention mounted within one type of end effector <b>12</b>. The end effector <b>12</b> in this embodiment employs a “stepped” anvil <b>18</b> of the type illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 23-25</figref>. In other embodiments, however, the bottom surface of the anvil is planar and not stepped. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 19A, and 23-25</figref>, the anvil <b>18</b> has a central portion <b>19</b> that is offset or not coplanar with the two lateral side portions <b>21</b>, <b>23</b>. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the upper surface <b>306</b> of the cartridge <b>300</b> is provided with a recessed central portion <b>307</b> and two lateral side portions <b>309</b> that are adapted to closely mate with the corresponding portions <b>19</b>, <b>21</b>, <b>23</b>, respectively, of the anvil <b>18</b>, when the anvil <b>18</b> is in the closed position. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19A</figref>.

0233As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref>, in this embodiment, the under surfaces <b>200</b> of anvil <b>18</b> are provided with a series of forming pockets <b>202</b> that may be arranged in rows that correspond to the rows of channels in the cartridge <b>300</b>. That is, row <b>205</b> of pockets <b>202</b> may correspond to channel row <b>500</b>. Row <b>207</b> of pockets may correspond to channel row <b>502</b>. Row <b>209</b> of pockets <b>202</b> may correspond to channel row <b>504</b>. Row <b>211</b> of pockets <b>202</b> may correspond to channel row <b>506</b>. Row <b>213</b> of pockets <b>202</b> may correspond to channel row <b>508</b>. Row <b>215</b> of pockets <b>202</b> may correspond to channel row <b>510</b>. Each pocket <b>202</b> has at least one forming surface <b>203</b> therein that is adapted to contact the ends of the staple prongs <b>225</b> being driven therein to thereby cause the prongs <b>225</b> to bend inwardly toward each other. In one embodiment, each pocket <b>202</b> has two intersecting arcuate forming surfaces <b>203</b> that are oriented as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14A</figref>. Each arcuate forming surface has an apex <b>203</b>′ that defines a maximum pocket depth “Z”. However other forming pocket configurations could be employed.

0234Returning to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18 and 19</figref>, it can be seen that in one embodiment, the cartridge body <b>302</b> is mounted within the cartridge tray <b>224</b>. As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>, the cartridge body <b>302</b> is formed with two inside longitudinally extending slots <b>390</b> and two outside longitudinally extending slots <b>392</b>. Slots <b>390</b> and <b>392</b> extend from the proximal end <b>304</b> of the cartridge to its tapered outer tip <b>306</b> (shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>). This embodiment further includes a wedge sled <b>400</b> that slidably supported on the cartridge tray <b>224</b>. One wedge sled embodiment <b>400</b> includes a pair of inside sled cams <b>410</b>, wherein one inside sled cam <b>410</b> corresponds to one of the inside longitudinally extending slots <b>390</b> and wherein the other inside sled cam <b>410</b> corresponds to the other inside longitudinally extending slot <b>390</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>. The wedge sled <b>400</b> further includes a pair of outside sled cams <b>420</b>, wherein one outside sled cam <b>420</b> corresponds to one of the outside longitudinally extending slots <b>392</b> and the other outside sled cam <b>420</b> corresponds to the other outside longitudinally extending slot <b>392</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>. When assembled, the cartridge tray <b>224</b> holds the wedge sled <b>400</b> and the drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b</i>, <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b </i>inside the cartridge body <b>302</b>.

0235As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref>, the elongate channel <b>16</b> has a proximally placed attachment cavity <b>226</b> that receives a channel anchoring member <b>228</b> on the distal end of the frame <b>34</b> for attaching the end effector <b>12</b> to the handle portion <b>20</b>. The elongate channel <b>16</b> also has an anvil cam slot <b>230</b> that pivotally receives an anvil pivot <b>232</b> of the anvil <b>18</b>. The closure sleeve <b>32</b> that encompasses the frame <b>34</b> includes a distally presented tab <b>234</b> that engages an anvil feature <b>236</b> proximate but distal to the anvil pivot <b>232</b> on the anvil <b>18</b> to thereby effect opening and closing of the anvil <b>18</b>. The firing drive member <b>36</b> is shown as being assembled from the firing bar <b>14</b> attached to a firing connector <b>238</b> by pins <b>240</b>, which in turn is rotatingly and proximally attached to the metal drive rod <b>140</b>. The firing bar <b>14</b> is guided at a distal end of the frame by a slotted guide <b>239</b> inserted therein.

0236<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 20-23</figref> illustrate one embodiment of the wedge sled <b>400</b> of the present invention. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 20 and 23</figref>, the wedge sled <b>400</b> includes a central spacer portion <b>402</b> that extends between the inside sled cams <b>410</b>. A pusher block <b>404</b> is formed on the central spacer portion <b>402</b> for engagement with the middle pin <b>46</b> of the firing bar <b>14</b>. A side profile of one embodiment of an inside sled cam <b>410</b> is depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>. As can be seen in that Figure, the inside sled cam <b>410</b> has a bottom surface <b>412</b>, and a first camming surface <b>414</b> that forms an angle “G” with the bottom surface <b>412</b> and a second camming surface <b>415</b> that extends to a top surface <b>416</b>. In one embodiment, for example, the angle “G” may be 35 degrees and the angle “G′” may be 20 degrees. The height of the inside sled cam <b>410</b> (the distance between the bottom surface <b>412</b> and the top surface <b>416</b>) is represented as “first” sled cam height “H”. In one embodiment, distance “H’ is approximately 0.173 inches and the length of the top surface <b>416</b> may vary from embodiment to embodiment. As will be further evident as the present Detailed Description proceeds, the first sled cam height represents the vertical distance that the inside sled cams <b>410</b> will drive the corresponding inside drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b </i>toward the anvil <b>18</b> during operation.

0237The wedge sled <b>400</b> further comprises lateral spacer portions <b>406</b> that extend between the inside sled cams <b>410</b> and the outside sled cams <b>420</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 20 and 23</figref>. A side profile of one embodiment of an outside sled cam <b>420</b> is depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref>. In this embodiment, the outside sled cam <b>420</b> has a bottom surface <b>422</b> and a first camming surface <b>424</b> that forms an angle “I” with respect to the bottom surface <b>422</b> and a second camming surface <b>425</b> that to a top surface <b>426</b>. In one embodiment, angle “I” may be approximately 35 degrees and angle “I” may be approximately 20 degrees. The height of the outside sled cam <b>420</b> (the distance between the bottom surface <b>412</b> and the top surface <b>416</b>) is represented as the “second” sled cam height “J”. In one embodiment, distance “J’ is approximately 0.163 inches. The second sled cam height represents the vertical distance that the outside sled cams <b>420</b> will drive the corresponding outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b </i>toward the anvil <b>18</b> during operation. The reader will understand that the above-recited dimensions are illustrative of one embodiment and may vary for other embodiments.

0238With particular reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref>, a portion of the staple cartridge <b>300</b> is removed to expose portions of the elongate channel <b>16</b>, such as recesses <b>212</b>, <b>214</b> and to expose some components of the staple cartridge <b>300</b> in their unfired position. In particular, the cartridge body <b>302</b> (shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref>) has been removed. The wedge sled <b>400</b> is shown at its proximal, unfired position with a pusher block <b>404</b> contacting the middle pin <b>46</b> (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref>) of the firing bar <b>14</b>. The wedge sled <b>400</b> is in longitudinal sliding contact upon the cartridge tray <b>224</b> and includes wedges sled cams <b>410</b>, <b>420</b> that force upward the double drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b </i>and the single drivers <b>370</b><i>b</i>, <b>370</b><i>b </i>as the wedge sled <b>400</b> moves distally. Staples <b>222</b> (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref>) resting upon the drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b</i>, <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b </i>are thus also forced upward into contact with the anvil forming pockets <b>202</b> in anvil <b>18</b> to form closed staples. Also depicted is the channel slot <b>45</b> in the elongate channel <b>16</b> that is aligned with the elongated slot <b>310</b> in the staple cartridge <b>300</b>.

0239<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref> depicts the end effector <b>12</b>, which is in an open position by a retracted closure sleeve <b>32</b>, with a staple cartridge <b>300</b> installed in the elongate channel <b>16</b>. The firing bar <b>14</b> is at its proximal position, with the upper pin <b>38</b> aligned in a non-interfering fashion with the anvil pocket <b>40</b>. The anvil pocket <b>40</b> is shown as communicating with the longitudinal anvil slot <b>42</b> in the anvil <b>18</b>. The distally presented cutting edge <b>48</b> of the firing bar <b>14</b> is aligned with and proximally from removed from the vertical slot <b>49</b> in the staple cartridge <b>300</b>, thereby allowing removal of a spent cartridge and insertion of an unfired cartridge, which may be “snapfit” into the elongate channel <b>16</b>. Specifically, in this embodiment, extension features <b>316</b>, <b>318</b> of the staple cartridge <b>300</b> engage recesses <b>212</b>, <b>214</b>, respectively (shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref>) of the elongate channel <b>16</b>.

0240<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref> depicts the end effector <b>12</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref> with all of the staple cartridge <b>300</b> removed to show the middle pin <b>46</b> of the firing bar <b>14</b> as well as portion of the elongate channel <b>16</b> removed adjacent to the channel slot <b>45</b> to expose the firing bar cap <b>44</b>. In addition, portions of the shaft <b>23</b> are removed to expose a proximal portion of the firing bar <b>14</b>. Projecting downward from the anvil <b>18</b> near the pivot is a pair of opposing tissue stops <b>244</b> which serve to prevent tissue from being positioned too far up into the end effector <b>12</b> during clamping. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref> depicts the end effector <b>12</b> in a closed position with the firing bar <b>14</b> in an unfired position. The upper pin <b>38</b> is in the anvil pocket <b>40</b> and is vertically aligned with the anvil slot <b>42</b> for distal longitudinal movement of the firing bar <b>14</b> during firing. The middle pin <b>46</b> is positioned to push the wedge sled <b>400</b> distally so that the sled cams <b>410</b>, <b>420</b> contact and lift double drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b </i>and the single drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b</i>, respectively, to drive them upwardly toward the anvil <b>18</b>.

0241As can be appreciated from reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14A, 15A and 19A</figref>, in one embodiment of the present invention, the distance between the bottom of the first staple-receiving grooves <b>345</b>, <b>347</b> forming the first staple cradle <b>349</b> and the apex <b>203</b>′ of forming surfaces <b>203</b> of the corresponding forming pocket <b>202</b> of anvil <b>18</b>, when the anvil <b>18</b> is in the closed position and when the inside driver <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b </i>is supported on the cartridge tray <b>224</b>, is referred to herein as the first staple forming distance “A”. The distance between the bottom of the secondary staple-receiving grooves <b>345</b>, <b>347</b> forming the secondary staple cradle <b>349</b> and the apex <b>203</b>′ of the forming surface <b>203</b> of the corresponding forming pocket <b>202</b> in the anvil <b>18</b> when the anvil <b>18</b> is in the closed position and the inside driver <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b </i>is supported on the cartridge tray <b>224</b> is referred to herein as the secondary staple forming distance “B”. In one embodiment, the first staple forming distance “A” and the secondary staple forming distance “B” are substantially equal to each other. In other embodiments, those distances “A” and “B” may differ from each other.

0242As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16A and 19A</figref> the distance between the bottom of the second staple-receiving grooves <b>376</b>, <b>378</b> that form the second staple cradle <b>379</b> and the apex <b>203</b>′ of the forming surface <b>203</b> of a corresponding forming pocket <b>202</b> in anvil <b>18</b> when the anvil <b>18</b> is in the closed position and the outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b </i>are supported on the cartridge channel <b>224</b>, is referred to herein as a “second” staple forming distance “C”.

0243<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 27 and 28</figref> illustrate the forming of staples supported on some of the first outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref>, one of the outside sled cams <b>420</b> of the wedge sled <b>400</b> is initially contacting one of the outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>. As the wedge sled <b>400</b> continues in the driving direction represented by arrow “K” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref>, the outside sled cam <b>420</b> causes the outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a </i>drive the staples <b>222</b> supported thereby into the staple forming pockets <b>202</b> in the anvil <b>18</b>. Likewise, as the wedge sled <b>400</b> is driven in the driving direction “K”, the inside sled cams <b>410</b> contact the inside drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b </i>and causes them to drive the staples <b>222</b> supported thereby into the corresponding staple forming pockets <b>202</b> in the anvil <b>18</b>.

0244As indicated above, in some applications involving an area of varied tissue composition, it can be desirable to form rows of staples wherein the formed (final) heights of the staples in a row that is the farthest distance away from the cut line are greater than the formed (final) heights of those staples in the row that is closest to the cut line. In other applications, it may be desirable for the formed heights of the staples in a single row to increase (or decrease) from staple to staple. Another clinical benefit would be to have the formed heights of the staples in the outermost rows larger than formed heights of the staples in the inside rows. The various embodiments of the subject invention can provide these results while employing identical staples in all of the rows.

0245In the description to follow, those staples <b>222</b> in the outermost rows <b>520</b>, <b>530</b> of staples (those staples formed using the outside staple drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b</i>) will be referred to hereinafter as staples <b>222</b>′ and those staples in the innermost rows <b>522</b>, <b>524</b>, <b>526</b>, <b>528</b> of staples (those staples formed using the inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b</i>) will be referred to hereinafter as staples <b>222</b>″. It will be understood, however, that staples <b>222</b>′ and <b>222</b>″ are identical to each other prior to being formed by the various embodiments of the present invention. That is, staples <b>222</b>′ and <b>222</b>″ each have identical prong lengths “P” and widths “W”. Returning to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14A-16A and 21 and 22</figref>, the above desired effects may be attained by altering the staple forming distances “A”, “B”, and “C” relative to each other and/or the sled cam heights “H” and “J”. In one embodiment of the subject invention, for example, the height “H” of each of the inside sled cams <b>410</b> is substantially equal to the sled height “J” of each of the outside sled cams <b>420</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 21 and 22</figref>. In this embodiment, the staple forming distances “A” and “B” are substantially equal to each other, but distances “A” and “B” are less than the staple forming distance “C”. The distance “D” between the bottoms of the first staple-receiving grooves <b>345</b>, <b>347</b> and the bottom surface <b>342</b>′ of the primary driver base <b>342</b> is substantially equal to the distance “E” between the bottoms of the secondary staple-receiving grooves <b>356</b>, <b>357</b> and the bottom surface <b>352</b>′ of the secondary driver base portion <b>352</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>. Also in this embodiment, the distance “F” between the bottoms of the second staple-receiving grooves <b>376</b> and <b>378</b> and the bottom surface <b>373</b> of the third base <b>372</b> of the outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>) is less than distances “D” and “E” (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>). Because the forming distance “C” is greater than the forming distances “A” and “B”, the staples <b>222</b> supported and formed by the outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b </i>are not compressed as much as the staples supported and formed by the inside drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b</i>. It will be understood that similar results may be attained on the opposite side of the elongated slot <b>310</b> and the cut line <b>600</b> formed in the tissue by using the same arrangements and sizes of inside drivers <b>330</b><i>b </i>and outside drivers <b>370</b><i>b</i>. In an alternative embodiment, the same effect may be achieved by altering the depths of the forming pockets <b>202</b> corresponding to the drivers <b>330</b><i>a </i>and <b>370</b><i>b </i>such that forming distance “C” is greater than the forming distances “A” and “B”. That is, the depth (distance “Z′” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16A</figref>) of the forming pockets <b>202</b> corresponding to the outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>. <b>370</b><i>b </i>may be greater than the depth (distance “Z” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14A</figref>) of the forming pockets <b>202</b> that correspond to the inside drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b. </i>

0246<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 29</figref> illustrates the rows of staples formed on each side of a cut line <b>600</b> utilizing this embodiment of the present invention wherein the forming distances “A” and “B” are equal to each other and the forming distance “C” is greater than the forming distances “A” and “B”. For example, if forming distance “C” is 0.020″ greater than forming distances “A” and “B”, the formed height of the outside staples <b>222</b>′ (represented as dimension “L” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref>) in rows <b>520</b> and <b>530</b> would be 0.020 inches is greater than the formed height of the inside staples <b>222</b>″ (represented as dimension “M” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref>) in rows <b>522</b>, <b>524</b>, <b>526</b>, <b>528</b>.

0247The same result may be achieved by utilizing another embodiment of the present invention wherein the forming distances “A”, “B” and “C” are essentially equal. In this embodiment, however, the height of each of the inside sled cams <b>410</b> (distance “H” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>) is greater than the height of each of the outside sled cams <b>420</b> (distance “J” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref>). Thus, because the height “H” of the inside sled cams <b>410</b> is greater than the height “J′” of the outside sled cams <b>420</b>, the inside sled cams <b>410</b> will drive the corresponding inside drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b </i>further towards the anvil than the outside sled cams <b>420</b> will drive the corresponding outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b</i>. Such driving action will cause the staples supported by the inside drivers <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b </i>to be compressed to a greater extent than those staples supported by the outside drivers <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b</i>. For example, if distance “H” is 0.020 inches greater than distance “J”, the formed height of staples <b>222</b>′ in lines <b>520</b>, <b>530</b> would be 0.020″ greater than the formed height of staples <b>222</b>″ in lines <b>522</b>, <b>524</b>, <b>526</b>, <b>528</b>.

0248When employing yet another embodiment of the present invention, the outside rows <b>520</b>, <b>530</b> of staples <b>222</b>′ and the inside rows <b>522</b>, <b>528</b> of staples <b>222</b>″ may be formed with heights that are greater than the formed heights of the staples <b>222</b>″ in the inside rows <b>524</b>, <b>526</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref>. This result is achieved by making the forming distances “C” greater than the forming distance “A” and making forming distance “A” greater than secondary forming distance “B”.

0249Another embodiment of the present invention can be used to install staples where it is desirable for the formed heights of staples in a single row to vary. One such arrangement is depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33</figref>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33</figref>, the formed heights of the staples <b>222</b>′ in the outside rows <b>520</b>, <b>530</b> increase when moving from the proximal ends <b>521</b>, <b>531</b> of each row <b>520</b>, <b>530</b>, respectively to the distal ends <b>523</b>, <b>533</b> of each row <b>520</b>, <b>530</b>, respectively. This effect may be accomplished by decreasing the forming distance “C” for each succeeding driver <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b</i>. That is, the driver <b>370</b><i>a </i>closest the proximal end of the cartridge <b>300</b> would be sized to establish a forming distance “C” that is greater than the forming distance “C” achieved by the adjacent driver <b>370</b><i>a </i>and so on to achieve a condition wherein each succeeding staple <b>222</b>′ (moving in the direction from the proximal end to the distal end of the cartridge <b>300</b>) would have larger formed heights. This result could also be attained in the staples <b>222</b>″ in rows <b>522</b>, <b>524</b>, <b>526</b>, <b>528</b> by similarly altering the forming distances “A” and/or “B” attained by each driver <b>330</b><i>a</i>, <b>330</b><i>b</i>. Likewise, formed heights of the staples <b>222</b>′ in the outside rows <b>520</b>, <b>530</b> could be made to decrease when moving from the proximal ends <b>521</b>, <b>531</b> of each row <b>520</b>, <b>530</b>, respectively, to the distal ends <b>523</b>, <b>533</b> of each row <b>520</b>, <b>530</b>, respectively. This result may be attained by increasing the forming distance of each succeeding driver <b>370</b><i>a</i>, <b>370</b><i>b</i>. That is, the driver <b>370</b><i>a </i>closest the proximal end of the cartridge <b>300</b> would have a forming distance “C” that is less than the forming distance “C” of the adjacent driver <b>370</b><i>a </i>and so on to achieve a condition wherein each succeeding staple <b>222</b>′ (moving in the direction from the proximal end to the distal end of the cartridge) would have smaller formed heights. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref>.

0250In use, the surgical stapling and severing instrument <b>10</b> is used as depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-2 and 35-41</figref>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-2</figref>, the instrument <b>10</b> is in its start position, having had an unfired, fully loaded staple cartridge <b>300</b> snap-fitted into the distal end of the elongate channel <b>16</b>. Both triggers <b>26</b>, <b>28</b> are forward and the end effector <b>12</b> is open, such as would be typical after inserting the end effector <b>12</b> through a trocar or other opening into a body cavity. The instrument <b>10</b> is then manipulated by the clinician such that tissue <b>248</b> to be stapled and severed is positioned between the staple cartridge <b>300</b> and the anvil <b>18</b>, as depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 35</figref>. With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 36 and 37</figref>, the clinician then moves the closure trigger <b>26</b> proximally until positioned directly adjacent to the pistol grip <b>24</b>, locking the handle portion <b>20</b> into the closed and clamped position. The retracted firing bar <b>14</b> in the end effector <b>12</b> does not impede the selective opening and closing of the end effector <b>12</b>, but rather resides within the anvil pocket <b>40</b>. With the anvil <b>18</b> closed and clamped, the E-beam firing bar <b>14</b> is aligned for firing through the end effector <b>12</b>. In particular, the upper pin <b>38</b> is aligned with the anvil slot <b>42</b> and the elongate channel <b>16</b> is affirmatively engaged about the channel slot <b>45</b> by the middle pin <b>46</b> and the firing bar cap <b>44</b>.

0251With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 38 and 39</figref>, after tissue clamping has occurred, the clinician moves the firing trigger <b>28</b> proximally causing the firing bar <b>14</b> to move distally into the end effector <b>12</b>. In particular, the middle pin <b>46</b> enters the staple cartridge <b>300</b> through the firing drive slot <b>47</b> to affect the firing of the staples <b>222</b> (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 38 and 39</figref>) via wedge sled <b>400</b> toward the anvil <b>18</b>. The lowermost pin, or firing bar cap <b>44</b>, cooperates with the middle pin <b>46</b> to slidingly position cutting edge <b>48</b> of the firing bar <b>14</b> to sever tissue. The two pins <b>44</b>, <b>46</b> also position the upper pin <b>38</b> of the firing bar <b>14</b> within longitudinal anvil slot <b>42</b> of the anvil <b>18</b>, affirmatively maintaining the spacing between the anvil <b>18</b> and the elongate channel <b>16</b> throughout its distal firing movement.

0252With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 40 and 41</figref>, the clinician continues moving the firing trigger <b>28</b> until brought proximal to the closure trigger <b>26</b> and pistol grip <b>24</b>. Thereby, all of the ends of the staples <b>222</b> are bent over as a result of their engagement with the anvil <b>18</b>. The firing bar cap <b>44</b> is arrested against a firing bar stop <b>250</b> projecting toward the distal end of the channel slot <b>45</b>. The cutting edge <b>48</b> has traversed completely through the tissue. The process is complete by releasing the firing trigger <b>28</b> and by then depressing the release button <b>30</b> while simultaneously squeezing the closure trigger <b>26</b> to open the end effector <b>12</b>.

0253<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 42-43</figref> show the inside and outside sled cams <b>410</b>, <b>420</b> of the sled <b>400</b> having different heights so that the staples, when formed, may have different formed heights. In particular, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 42</figref> the outside sled cam <b>420</b> may be shorter than the inside sled cam <b>410</b>. That way, the outside staples may have a greater formed height than the inside staples.

0254<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 42</figref> is a perspective view of the sled <b>400</b> with the different heights for the inside and outside sled cams <b>410</b>, <b>420</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43</figref> is a side view of the end effector <b>12</b> showing various stages of driving the staples <b>222</b> with a sled <b>400</b> having different heights for the inside and outside sled cams <b>410</b>, <b>420</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43</figref>, the formed staple <b>222</b><i>b </i>may have a greater formed height than the formed staple <b>222</b><i>a </i>because the staple <b>222</b><i>b </i>was driven by the outside cam sled <b>420</b> and the staple <b>222</b><i>a </i>was driven by the taller inside cam sled <b>410</b>.

0255In another embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 44</figref>, the heights of the driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> of a double driver <b>330</b> may vary so that the staples, when formed, may have different heights. In particular, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 44</figref>, the secondary driver portion <b>352</b> may be shorter (having height “E”) than the primary driver portion <b>342</b> (having height “D”). That way, the staple <b>222</b><i>a </i>driven by the secondary driver portion <b>352</b> may have a greater formed height than the staple <b>222</b><i>b </i>driven by the primary driver portion <b>342</b>. In various embodiments, some or all of the inside double drivers <b>330</b> could have primary and secondary driver portions <b>342</b> of different heights. Further, the heights differential need not be all the same. Different inside double drivers <b>330</b> could have different height differentials.

0256In addition, the height of the primary and secondary driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> may be the same as or different from the height of the driver portions <b>372</b> of the outside staple drivers <b>370</b>. That is, in various embodiments, the driver height of the outside staple driver portion <b>372</b> may be (1) different from the height of both driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> of the inside double driver <b>330</b> when the driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> are the same height, (2) different from the height of both driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> when they are different heights, or (3) the same as the height for one of the driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> when the driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> have different heights. Also, the heights of the driver portions <b>372</b> of the outside staple drivers <b>370</b> need not be all the same. Different outside staple drivers <b>370</b> could have different heights.

0257<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 45</figref> shows an embodiment having different height drivers (e.g., the primary driver portion <b>342</b> taller than the secondary driver portion <b>352</b>) and with different depth anvil pockets <b>202</b>. Varying the depth of the anvil pockets <b>202</b> can also affect the height of the formed staples. All things being equal, deeper pockets should result in longer formed staples. In the illustrated embodiment, the pockets <b>202</b> corresponding to the primary driver portion <b>342</b> are deeper than the pockets <b>202</b> corresponding to the secondary driver portion <b>352</b>. Some or all of the pockets <b>202</b> for each staple row <b>500</b>-<b>510</b> could be deeper. Also, the depth differentials need not be the same. A multitude of different depths could be used in a single row <b>500</b>-<b>510</b> or across rows <b>500</b>-<b>510</b>.

0258In addition, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 46</figref>, staples <b>222</b> with differing pre-formation prong heights (“P”) may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the longer staple <b>222</b><i>a </i>is used with the shorter, secondary driver portion <b>352</b> of an inside double driver <b>330</b> in comparison with staple <b>222</b><i>b </i>driven by the primary driver portion <b>342</b>. The pre-formation staple prong lengths may vary within a staple row <b>500</b>-<b>510</b> or across staple rows. That is, for example, all of the staples in the inside rows <b>504</b>-<b>506</b> could have the same pre-formation prong length x, all of the staples in the intermediate rows <b>502</b>, <b>508</b> could be longer (e.g., a length 1.10×), and all of the staples in the outer rows <b>500</b>, <b>510</b> could be still longer (e.g., a length of 1.20×). As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 47</figref>, the anvil pockets <b>202</b> could have the same depth. In other embodiments, varying anvil pocket depths could be used.

0259<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 48</figref> is a side view of the end effector <b>12</b> in an embodiment where the outside staple drivers <b>370</b> have different heights. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the first staple driver <b>370</b>′ is taller than the second staple driver <b>370</b>″. In the illustrated embodiment, the staples <b>222</b> have the same pre-formation prong length and the corresponding anvil pockets <b>202</b> have the same depth. As such, the formed staple <b>222</b>″ formed with the second outside staple driver <b>370</b>″ is longer than the formed staple <b>222</b>′ formed with the first outside staple driver <b>370</b>′.

0260<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 49</figref> is a side view of the end effector <b>12</b> where the anvil <b>18</b> has pockets <b>202</b> of different depth for the staples <b>222</b> driven by a inside double driver <b>330</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, the pockets <b>202</b> corresponding to the primary driver portion <b>342</b> are deeper than the corresponding pockets <b>202</b> for the secondary driver portion <b>352</b>. In this embodiment, the primary and secondary driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> are the same height and the staples <b>222</b> have the same pre-formation prong length. The distance between the top of the primary driver portion <b>342</b> and the top of the corresponding anvil pockets <b>202</b> is height “A” and the corresponding height for the secondary portion <b>352</b> is height “B,” where “A” is greater than “B” by a height differential “h′”. This should result in longer formed staples for the primary driver portion <b>342</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>.

0261<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 51 and 60</figref> show aspects of an end effector <b>12</b> according to other embodiments that can be used to produce staples of different formed lengths. In the illustrated embodiment, the staple drivers <b>330</b>, <b>370</b> are driven in stages by a plurality of actuator wedge cams <b>709</b> at the distal end of a plurality of wedge band sets <b>710</b>, <b>712</b>, <b>714</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, each wedge band set comprise four wedge bands (shown best in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 56</figref>); two <b>720</b> for actuating the inner drivers <b>330</b><i>a,b </i>and two <b>722</b> for actuating the outer drivers <b>370</b><i>a,b</i>. The wedge bands of the wedge band sets <b>710</b>, <b>712</b>, <b>714</b> may be actuated in serial order and may ride on top of one another in a stack to drive the staple drivers <b>330</b><i>a,b</i>, <b>370</b><i>a,b </i>(and hence the staples <b>222</b>) in serial stages. For example, the wedge bands of the lowermost actuator wedge band set <b>710</b> may be fired (or actuated) first, and may partially deploy the staples <b>222</b>. The middle wedge band set <b>712</b>, which rides on top of the lowermost wedge band set <b>710</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 53-56</figref>, may be actuated next, which may have the effect of beginning to form the staples <b>222</b>. Then the uppermost wedge band set <b>714</b>, which rides on the middle wedge band set <b>712</b>, may be actuated, which finishes the formation of the staples <b>222</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 56</figref> illustrates this operation. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 56</figref>, the lowermost wedge band sets <b>710</b> have been fired, the middle wedge band sets <b>712</b> have been partially fired, and the uppermost wedge band set <b>714</b> has not yet been fired. Thus, such an embodiment may comprise a plurality (in this case four) of stacked wedge band sets, each stack comprising a wedge band from the lowermost set <b>710</b>, the middle set <b>712</b>, and the uppermost set <b>714</b>.

0262The firing bar <b>716</b>, with the e-beam firing mechanism <b>14</b>, may then be fired to cut the tissue clamped by the end effector <b>12</b>. A hold down spring <b>718</b>, which may be connected to the frame <b>34</b> at a crossbar <b>719</b>, may engage and urge the firing bar <b>716</b> downward.

0263As can be seen best in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 54 and 56</figref>, the cumulative height of the wedge band stacks of inner row <b>720</b> or may be greater than the cumulative height of the wedge band stacks of the outer row <b>722</b> (by a height differential h′). That way, the outer row of staples may have a greater formed length than the inner row of formed staples, as shown in the example of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 55</figref>, where the outer row staple <b>222</b><i>a </i>has a greater formed length than the inner row staple <b>222</b><i>b</i>. As shown the example of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 61</figref>, according to one embodiment, the wedge bands of the lowermost and middle wedge bands sets <b>710</b>, <b>712</b> may be the same height, and the height of the wedge bands for the outer row <b>722</b> of the uppermost wedge band set <b>714</b> may be less than the height of the wedge bands of the inner row <b>720</b> of the uppermost wedge band set <b>714</b> to provide the height differential for the different wedge band stacks.

0264The end effector <b>12</b> in such an embodiment may still comprise a sled <b>400</b>, but without the sled cams <b>410</b>, <b>420</b>, to keep the firing mechanism <b>14</b> out of the lockout in the channel (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3-4</figref> and related text).

0265The inner and outer wedge band stacks <b>720</b>, <b>722</b> may be tightly spaced within the frame <b>34</b>. Accordingly, the end effector <b>12</b> may further comprise an actuator wedge band respective guide <b>702</b> for spreading out the wedge band stacks <b>720</b>, <b>722</b> when they enter the end effector <b>12</b> to align with the staple drivers <b>330</b>, <b>370</b>. The wedge band guide <b>702</b> may include wedge band channels for each of the inner and outer wedge band stacks <b>720</b>, <b>722</b>. That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the wedge band guide <b>702</b> may comprise four wedge band channels—two of the inner rows <b>720</b> and two for the outer rows <b>722</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 58-60</figref> show one side of the wedge band guide <b>702</b> in more detail. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 60</figref>, the wedge band channels <b>730</b>, <b>732</b> may force the wedge band stacks <b>720</b>, <b>722</b> outward as they enter the end effector <b>12</b>. The inner wedge band channel <b>730</b> may direct the inner wedge band stack <b>720</b> so that the inner wedge band stack <b>720</b> aligns with the inner staple drivers <b>330</b> and the outer wedge band channel <b>732</b> may direct the outer row wedge band stack <b>722</b> so that the outer wedge band stack aligns with the outer staple drivers <b>370</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, the channels <b>730</b>, <b>732</b> are straight. In other embodiments, one or both of the channels <b>730</b>, <b>732</b> may comprise curved portions.

0266<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 62</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the shaft assembly <b>10</b> according to such an embodiment. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 62</figref>, each wedge band set <b>710</b>-<b>714</b> may have its own actuation (or firing) bar. The lowermost actuation bar <b>740</b> may actuate the wedge bands of the lowermost wedge band set <b>710</b>, the middle actuation bar <b>742</b> may actuate the wedge bands of the middle wedge band set <b>712</b>, and the uppermost actuation bar <b>744</b> may actuate the wedge bands of the uppermost wedge band set <b>714</b>. The firing bar <b>716</b> for actuating the cutting instrument <b>14</b> may be connected to the uppermost wedge band set <b>714</b> so that the cutting instrument <b>14</b> is actuated with the uppermost (last) wedge band set <b>714</b>. In other embodiments, the firing bar <b>716</b> may have its own actuation mechanism so that is may be actuated separately.

0267In practice, the clinician may choose (or select) to actuate less than all of the wedge band sets <b>710</b>-<b>714</b> before actuating the firing rod <b>716</b> to cut the tissue to thereby exercise some choice in the length of the staples to be formed. For example, in various embodiments, the clinician may select to actuate the lowermost and middle wedge band sets <b>710</b>, <b>712</b>—and not the uppermost wedge band set <b>714</b>—before cutting.

0268<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 63-69</figref> illustrate an embodiment of an open linear stapling and cutting device <b>800</b> that may use multiple stacked wedge band sets to produce staples of different formed lengths. In the illustrated embodiment, the anvil <b>810</b> is below the channel <b>809</b>. As such, the staples are driven down through tissue clamped in the end effector <b>12</b> as part of the stapling operation.

0269The device <b>800</b> may include an upper body piece <b>802</b> and a lower body piece <b>804</b>. The upper body piece <b>802</b> may include a channel <b>806</b> in which the staple cartridge <b>809</b> is inserted. The anvil <b>810</b> may be connected to the lower body piece <b>804</b> and face the staple cartridge <b>809</b> so that the staples <b>222</b> can be formed against the staple forming surface <b>812</b> of the anvil <b>810</b>. When the clinician is satisfied with the position of the tissue between the cartridge <b>809</b> and the anvil <b>810</b>, the clinician may lock the device <b>800</b> using a clamp lever <b>814</b> of a clamp lever assembly <b>816</b> connected to the upper body piece <b>802</b>.

0270The staple drivers <b>820</b> in the cartridge <b>809</b> may be actuated in stages using multiple staged wedge band stacks. Because the staples <b>222</b> are driven down in this embodiment, the wedge bands of the uppermost wedge band set <b>822</b> may be actuated first to partially deploy the staples <b>222</b>. Next, the wedge bands of the middle wedge band set <b>824</b>, which ride on the uppermost wedge band set <b>822</b>, may be actuated to begin forming the staples <b>222</b>. Then the wedge bands of the lowermost wedge band set <b>826</b>, which ride on the middle wedge band set <b>824</b>, may be actuated, which finishes the formation of the staples <b>222</b>.

0271In the illustrated embodiment, the firing bar <b>828</b>, with the knife <b>830</b> at is distal end, is connected to the lowermost wedge band set <b>826</b> and is fired with the lowermost wedge band set <b>826</b>. A hold down spring <b>832</b> may engage and urge the firing bar <b>828</b> upward. A knife retainer <b>834</b> may retain the firing bar <b>828</b> with the lowermost wedge band set <b>826</b>.

0272As best shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 67-68</figref>, the clinician may actuate the wedge band sets using a three-part actuation slide bar <b>840</b>. The upper piece <b>842</b> may actuate the uppermost (initial) wedge band set <b>822</b>. The middle piece <b>844</b> may actuate the middle wedge band set <b>824</b>. The lower piece <b>846</b> may actuate the lowermost (last) wedge band set <b>826</b>.

0273To form staples of different formed heights, the staple pushers <b>820</b> may have different heights. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 66</figref>, one set of staple pusher <b>820</b><i>a </i>could be shorter than another set of staple pushers <b>820</b><i>b</i>. As such, the formed staple <b>222</b><i>a</i>, produced by the shorter staple pusher <b>820</b><i>a</i>, may have a longer formed length than the formed staple <b>222</b><i>b</i>, formed by the longer staple pusher <b>820</b><i>b</i>. In other embodiments, the staples <b>222</b> may have different lengths or wire diameters to create different length formed staples, and/or the pockets <b>202</b> in the anvil <b>810</b> could have different depths to create different length formed staples. Also, the cumulative heights of the wedge band stacks could be different.

0274According to various embodiments of the present invention, the staple drivers could have a staple/driver interface that permits staples of varying wire diameter to be employed. For example, as shown in the embodiments of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 78-83</figref>, the outside staple drivers <b>370</b><i>a,b </i>may have a raised dimple configuration on its upper surface for supporting staples having differing wire diameters. The dimple configuration may comprise, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, two inner sets of outwardly protruding dimples (or convex bumps) <b>620</b><i>a,b</i>, and two outer sets of dimples <b>622</b><i>a,b</i>. Each set of dimples defines a receiving area where a staple <b>222</b> may sit in the upright position, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 81-83</figref>. The dimples of the inner sets <b>620</b><i>a,b </i>may be larger than the dimples of the outer dimple sets <b>622</b><i>a,b </i>so that the receiving area of the inner sets <b>620</b><i>a,b </i>is less than for the outer dimple sets <b>622</b><i>a,b</i>. Nevertheless, due to the convex nature of the dimples, staples <b>222</b> of varying wire thicknesses may be accommodated, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 82 and 83</figref>. For example, the dimples could be configured so that the staple drivers <b>370</b> can accommodate staples having a wire diameter of 0.006 inches to 0.012 inches, or some other range such as 0.004 inches to 0.008 inches or 0.006 inches to 0.008 inches, etc. As such, staples of different wire thicknesses could be used in a single cartridge <b>306</b>. Differing wire diameters would produce different formed staple heights all other things being equal (e.g., same drive/crush distance, same pocket depth, etc.). In addition, as shown best in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 78</figref>, the staple cradles for the inside drivers <b>330</b> may include sharp points <b>624</b> that may injure the tissue that is being stapled. The dimple configurations on the outside staple drivers <b>370</b> lack such sharp points, which would tend to minimize the trauma on the tissue being stapled.

0275In the illustrated embodiment, the outer staple drivers <b>370</b><i>a,b </i>have the raised dimple configuration in order to accommodate staples of different wire diameters and the staple cradles of the inside staple drivers <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> can only support upright staples of one general wire diameter. In other embodiments, the one or both of the inside staple drivers <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> may also or alternatively have the raised dimple configuration. Also, rather than using the raised dimple configuration, a v-shaped staple channel <b>349</b>, <b>379</b> may be used. Such a v-shaped channel may also accommodate staples having different wire diameters. Also, staple pushers with staple interfaces that accommodate different staple wire diameters could be used with other types of staple drivers than the inside double and outside single staple drivers shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 78-83</figref>.

0276<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 70-77</figref> are cross-sectional frontal views of the end effector <b>12</b> according to various embodiments of the present invention. In the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 70</figref>, the anvil <b>18</b> is stepped, having a central portion <b>19</b> that is offset relative to (or not coplanar with) the two lateral side portions <b>21</b>, <b>23</b>. Also, the upper surface <b>306</b> of the cartridge <b>300</b> has a recessed central portion <b>307</b> and two lateral side portions <b>309</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19A</figref>). All the staples <b>222</b> have the same pre-formation prong height and the corresponding anvil pockets <b>202</b> have the same depth. However, due to the stepped nature of the anvil <b>18</b>, the pockets <b>202</b> on the two lateral side portions <b>21</b>, <b>23</b> of the anvil <b>18</b> are offset from the pockets in the central portion <b>19</b> of the anvil. Offsetting the vertical position of the staple forming pockets <b>202</b> can affect the length of the formed staples <b>222</b>. All other things being equal, staples formed by staple forming pockets that are elevated will have a longer formed length than staples formed with pockets that are not elevated. Also in this embodiment, the primary and secondary driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> of the double inside drivers <b>330</b><i>a,b </i>are the same height, and the height of the driver portion <b>372</b> of the outside staple drivers <b>370</b><i>a,b </i>is greater than the height of the driver portions <b>342</b>, <b>352</b> of the double inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>a,b</i>. Also, the inside and outside sled cams <b>410</b>, <b>4120</b> are the same height in this embodiment.

0277<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref> shows an embodiment where the end effector <b>12</b> has a stepped cartridge tray <b>224</b> at the bottom of the cartridge <b>300</b> to match the steps in the channel <b>16</b>. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge tray <b>224</b> has a central portion <b>602</b> on which the double inside staple drivers <b>330</b><i>a,b </i>rest and outer lateral portions <b>604</b> on which the outside staple drivers <b>370</b><i>a,b </i>rest. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref>, the central portion <b>602</b> of the cartridge tray <b>224</b> is elevated above the lateral portions <b>604</b>. As such, the sled <b>400</b> may be configured so that the outside sled cam <b>420</b> is positioned lower than the inside sled cam <b>410</b> so that the outside sled cam <b>420</b> can engage the lower outside driver portions <b>370</b><i>a,b. </i>

0278The embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 72</figref> is similar to that shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref> except that in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 72</figref> the cartridge <b>300</b> does not include the cartridge tray <b>224</b>. Rather, the staple drivers <b>330</b>, <b>370</b> rest directly on the channel <b>16</b>. Such an embodiment may be beneficial because it may allow for more material (e.g., metal) in the channel <b>16</b> at points A and B than in a similar embodiment with the cartridge tray <b>224</b> (such as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref>).

0279The embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 73</figref> is also similar to that shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref> except that in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 73</figref> the cartridge tray <b>224</b> is raised slightly relative to the bottom on the channel <b>16</b> in comparison with the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref>. Such an embodiment may also allow for more material (e.g., metal) in the channel <b>16</b> at points A and B than in the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref>. According to other embodiments, the height of the anvil <b>18</b> could be reduced to permit more material in the channel <b>16</b> at points A and B.

0280The embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 74</figref> is similar to that used in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 73</figref> except that no cartridge tray <b>224</b> is included in the embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 74</figref>.

0281The embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 75</figref> is similar to that of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 70</figref> except than in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 75</figref> the outer rows of pockets <b>202</b> are formed in a compliant material portion <b>610</b> of the anvil <b>18</b>. The compliant material portion <b>610</b> may be made from a material that is more compliant to the rest of the anvil <b>18</b>. For example, the compliant material portion <b>610</b> may be made from plastic or a plastic composite material and the rest of the pockets may be defined in a less-compliant material, such as stainless steel, of the anvil <b>18</b>. The less-compliant anvil portion is sometimes referred to herein as “non-compliant” to distinguish it from the compliant materials portion <b>610</b>, although it should be recognized that the so-called non-compliant material portion would be somewhat compliant, just less compliant than the compliant material portion <b>610</b>. All things being equal, staples formed with the outer pockets <b>202</b> formed in the compliant material portion <b>610</b> of the anvil <b>18</b> would be longer than stapled form in the non-compliant (e.g., metal) portion of the anvil <b>18</b> because the compliant material portion <b>610</b> would compress more during the staple formation process.

0282<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 76 and 77</figref> collectively show another embodiment. In this embodiment, the channel <b>16</b> includes a compliant material portion <b>612</b> under the outside drivers <b>370</b>. The complaint material portion <b>612</b> may be plastic or a composite plastic, for example. The inside drivers <b>330</b> may rest on the less-compliant (or “non-compliant”) channel <b>16</b>, which may be made of metal (e.g., stainless steel). The outside sled cam <b>420</b> may slightly compress the compliant material portions <b>612</b> under the outside drivers <b>370</b> when forming the staples in relation to the inside drivers <b>330</b> on the channel <b>16</b>, thereby forming slightly longer staples in the outside rows. In other embodiments, the compliant material portions <b>612</b> could be under the inside drivers <b>330</b> if it was desired to make the inside staples have a greater formed length.

0283According to other embodiments, staples of different materials could be used to produce staples of different formed lengths. The different materials may have different modulus of elasticity so that they will be formed differently given the same driving force. Staples having a higher modulus of elasticity will tend to be deformed less given the same driving force, thereby tending to produce staples having a longer formed length. The different materials for the staples <b>222</b> may comprise titanium, stainless steel, alloys, etc.

0284The present invention is also directed to other types of surgical cutting devices that can create formed staples of different heights. For example, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 84-89</figref> illustrate a circular stapler <b>900</b> that is capable of forming staples with different formed heights. As seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 84</figref>, the circular stapler <b>900</b> includes a head <b>902</b>, an anvil <b>904</b>, an adjustment knob assembly <b>906</b>, and a trigger <b>908</b>. The head <b>902</b> is coupled to a handle assembly <b>910</b> by an arcuate shaft assembly <b>912</b>. The trigger <b>908</b> is pivotally supported by the handle assembly <b>910</b> and acts to operate the stapler <b>900</b> when a safety mechanism (not shown) is released. When the trigger <b>908</b> is activated, a firing mechanism (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 84</figref>) operates within the shaft assembly <b>912</b> so that staples <b>914</b> are expelled from the head <b>902</b> into forming contact with the anvil <b>904</b>. Simultaneously, a knife <b>916</b> operably supported within the head <b>902</b> acts to cut tissue clamped between the head <b>902</b> and the anvil <b>904</b>. The stapler <b>900</b> is then pulled through the tissue leaving stapled tissue in its place.

0285<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 85 and 86</figref> illustrate one form of the anvil <b>904</b> and the head <b>902</b> that may be employed in connection with various embodiments of the subject invention. As can be seen in these figures, the anvil <b>904</b> may have a circular body portion <b>920</b> that has an anvil shaft <b>922</b> for attaching a trocar (not shown) thereto. The anvil body <b>920</b> has a staple forming surface <b>924</b> thereon and may also have a shroud <b>926</b> attached to the distal end thereof. The anvil <b>904</b> may be further provided with a pair of trocar retaining clips or leaf-type springs <b>928</b> that serve to releasably retain the trocar in retaining engagement with the anvil shaft <b>922</b>. A plastic knife board <b>930</b> may be fitted into a cavity <b>932</b> in the anvil body <b>904</b>.

0286The head <b>902</b> may comprise a casing member <b>940</b> that supports a cartridge supporting assembly in the form of a circular staple driver assembly <b>942</b> therein that is adapted to interface with a circular staple cartridge <b>944</b> and drive the staples <b>914</b> supported therein into forming contact with the staple forming surface <b>924</b> of the anvil <b>904</b>. The circular knife member <b>916</b> is also centrally disposed within the staple driver assembly <b>942</b>. The proximal end of the casing member <b>940</b> may be coupled to an outer tubular shroud <b>946</b> of the arcuate shaft assembly <b>912</b> by a distal ferrule member <b>948</b>. More details regarding circular staples may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/541,151, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING DEVICE WITH CLOSURE APPARATUS FOR LIMITING MAXIMUM TISSUE COMPRESSION FORCE, filed Sep. 29, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,665,647, which is incorporated herein by reference.

0287As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 85-89</figref>, the staple driver assembly <b>942</b> may comprise an outer ring of staple drivers <b>950</b> and an inner ring of staple drivers <b>952</b>. Correspondingly, the anvil <b>904</b> may comprise two concentric rings of staple forming pockets <b>202</b>. Actuation of the firing trigger <b>908</b> of the handle assembly <b>910</b> cause a compression shaft (not shown) of the shaft assembly <b>912</b> to move distally thereby driving the staple driver assembly <b>942</b> distally to fire the staples <b>914</b> into forming contact with the staple forming surface <b>924</b> of the anvil <b>904</b>. Thus, the outer staple drivers <b>950</b>, when actuated by the drive mechanism of the stapler <b>900</b>, drive an outer ring of staples <b>914</b> into the clamped tissue and are formed by surface forming surface <b>924</b> of the anvil <b>904</b>. Similarly, the inner staple drivers <b>952</b>, when actuated by the drive mechanism of the stapler <b>900</b>, drive an outer ring of staples <b>914</b> into the clamped tissue and are formed by surface forming surface <b>924</b> of the anvil <b>904</b>.

0288The staple drivers <b>950</b>, <b>952</b> could be of different heights to thereby form different length formed staples (all other things being equal). For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the outer staple drivers <b>950</b> may be shorter than the inner staple drivers <b>952</b> so that the outer formed staples are longer than the inner formed staples, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 88</figref>. Of course, in other embodiments, the inner staple drivers <b>952</b> could be shorter than the outer staple drivers <b>950</b>. Further, the outer staple drivers <b>950</b> may not be a uniform height; there could be height variation among the outer staple drivers <b>950</b>. Similarly, there could be height variation among the inner staple drivers <b>952</b>.

0289In addition, staples with different pre-formation prong heights could be used. Also, the staple forming pockets <b>202</b> in the surface forming surface <b>924</b> of the anvil <b>904</b> may have varying depths to thereby vary the length of the formed staples. Also, as described above, some or all of the staple drivers <b>950</b>, <b>952</b> may have a dimple configuration at their interface with the staples <b>914</b> to accommodate staples of different wire diameters or some other configuration that accommodates staples of different wire diameters (e.g., a v-shaped staple channel). Also, some of the pockets <b>202</b> in the anvil <b>1006</b> may be formed in a compliant material portion of the anvil <b>1006</b>. Also, the staples <b>914</b> could be made of materials that have a different modulus of elasticity.

0290In other embodiments, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 90-95</figref>, the present invention is directed to a linear stapler <b>1000</b> that is capable of forming staples of different heights. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 90-95</figref> focus on the end effector <b>1002</b> for such a linear stapler <b>1000</b>. The end effector <b>1002</b> may comprise a replaceable staple cartridge <b>1004</b> and a linear anvil <b>1006</b>. The cartridge <b>1004</b> comprises staples which are driven into and formed by the anvil <b>1006</b> when the device <b>1000</b> is actuated. Unlike the endocutters described before, the anvil <b>1006</b> may be non-rotatable in the linear stapler <b>1000</b>. To clamp tissue in the end effector <b>1002</b>, the user may squeeze a clamping trigger (not shown), which causes the cartridge <b>1004</b> to slide distally toward the anvil <b>1006</b> from an open position to a closed position. More details regarding the operation and components of a liner stapler may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,543, entitled LINEAR STAPLER WITH IMPROVED FIRING STROKE, (“the '543 patent”), which is incorporated herein by reference. Typically, such linear staplers do not comprise a cutting instrument.

0291<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 92-93</figref> show the end effector <b>1002</b> with the outer cover of the cartridge <b>1004</b> removed. As can be seen in these figures, the staple cartridge <b>1004</b> may comprise a staple driver assembly <b>1010</b> comprising a row of inner staple drivers <b>1012</b> and a row of outer staple drivers <b>1014</b>. The staple drivers <b>1012</b>, <b>1014</b> could be of different heights to thereby form different length formed staples (all other things being equal). For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the outer staple drivers <b>1014</b> may be shorter than the inner staple drivers <b>1012</b> so that the outer formed staples <b>222</b><i>b </i>are longer than the inner formed staples <b>222</b><i>a</i>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 94-95</figref>. Of course, in other embodiments, the inner staple drivers <b>1012</b> could be shorter than the outer staple drivers <b>1014</b>. Further, the outer staple drivers <b>1014</b> may not be a uniform height; there could be height variation among the outer staple drivers <b>1014</b>. Similarly, there could be height variation among the inner staple drivers <b>1012</b>. Also, the cartridge <b>1004</b> may comprise, for example, three rows of staples, where the outer two rows have shorter staple drivers and the inner row has longer staple drivers.

0292In addition, staples <b>1008</b> having different pre-formation prong heights could be used. Also, the staple forming pockets <b>202</b> in the surface forming surface <b>1016</b> of the anvil <b>1006</b> may have varying depths to thereby vary the length of the formed staples. Also, as described above, some or all of the staple drivers <b>1012</b>, <b>1014</b> may have a dimple configuration at their interface with the staples <b>1008</b> to accommodate staples of different wire diameters or some other configuration that accommodates staples of different wire diameters (e.g., a v-shaped staple channel). Also, some of the pockets <b>202</b> in the anvil <b>1006</b> may be formed in a compliant material portion of the anvil <b>1006</b>. Also, staples <b>1008</b> of different materials could be used.

0293In operation, as described in more detail in the '543 patent, when the clamping trigger is retracted by the user, the anvil <b>1006</b> is cause to slide proximally toward the staple cartridge <b>1004</b> into the closed position to clamp tissue in the end effector <b>102</b>. The cartridge <b>1004</b> may comprise a distally-extending tissue retaining pin <b>1020</b> that engages an opening <b>1022</b> in the anvil when the end effector <b>1002</b> is in the closed position to retain the tissue between the cartridge <b>1004</b> and the anvil <b>1002</b>. When the clinician retracts the separate firing trigger (not shown), a distally extending firing bar (not shown) is actuated, which actuates the staple drivers <b>1010</b> to drive the staples <b>1008</b>.

0294In another embodiment, the linear stapler <b>1000</b> could be configured so that the staple cartridge <b>1004</b> slides distally toward the anvil when the clamping trigger is actuated.

0295It should be recognized that stapling devices according to the present invention may combine some of the features described herein for creating staples of different formed lengths. For example, for embodiments having different staple crushing distances, the staples may all have the same pre-formation prong length or some staples may have different pre-formation prong lengths. Also, the staples may all be made out of the same material, or staples made of different materials, with different modulus of elasticity, could be used. Also, the staple wire diameters may all be the same or some of them could be different.

0296The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, the device can be disassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, the device can be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the present application.

0297Preferably, the various embodiments of the invention described herein will be processed before surgery. First, a new or used instrument is obtained and if necessary cleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrument are then placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in the sterile container. The sealed container keeps the instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical facility.

0298It is preferred that the device is sterilized. This can be done by any number of ways known to those skilled in the art including beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, steam.

0299While the present invention has been illustrated by description of several embodiments and while the illustrative embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications may readily appear to those skilled in the art. The various embodiments of the present invention represent vast improvements over prior staple methods that require the use of different sizes of staples in a single cartridge to achieve staples that have differing formed (final) heights.

0300Accordingly, the present invention has been discussed in terms of endoscopic procedures and apparatus. However, use herein of terms such as “endoscopic” should not be construed to limit the present invention to a surgical stapling and severing instrument for use only in conjunction with an endoscopic tube (i.e., trocar). On the contrary, it is believed that the present invention may find use in any procedure where access is limited to a small incision, including but not limited to laparoscopic procedures, as well as open procedures. Moreover, the unique and novel aspects of the various staple cartridge embodiments of the present invention may find utility when used in connection with other forms of stapling apparatuses without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

0301Over the years a variety of minimally invasive robotic (or “telesurgical”) systems have been developed to increase surgical dexterity as well as to permit a surgeon to operate on a patient in an intuitive manner. Many of such systems are disclosed in the following U.S. patents which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entirety: U.S. Pat. No. 5,792,135, entitled ARTICULATED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR PERFORMING MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY WITH ENHANCED DEXTERITY AND SENSITIVITY, U.S. Pat. No. 6,231,565, entitled ROBOTIC ARM DLUS FOR PERFORMING SURGICAL TASKS, U.S. Pat. No. 6,783,524, entitled ROBOTIC SURGICAL TOOL WITH ULTRASOUND CAUTERIZING AND CUTTING INSTRUMENT, U.S. Pat. No. 6,364,888, entitled ALIGNMENT OF MASTER AND SLAVE IN A MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL APPARATUS, U.S. Pat. No. 7,524,320, entitled MECHANICAL ACTUATOR INTERFACE SYSTEM FOR ROBOTIC SURGICAL TOOLS, U.S. Pat. No. 7,691,098, entitled PLATFORM LINK WRIST MECHANISM, U.S. Pat. No. 7,806,891, entitled REPOSITIONING AND REORIENTATION OF MASTER/SLAVE RELATIONSHIP IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE TELESURGERY, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,824,401, entitled SURGICAL TOOL WITH WRITED MONOPOLAR ELECTROSURGICAL END EFFECTORS. Many of such systems, however, have in the past been unable to generate the magnitude of forces required to effectively cut and fasten tissue.

0302<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 96</figref> depicts one version of a master controller <b>11001</b> that may be used in connection with a robotic arm slave cart <b>11100</b> of the type depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 96</figref>. Master controller <b>11001</b> and robotic arm slave cart <b>11100</b>, as well as their respective components and control systems are collectively referred to herein as a robotic system <b>11000</b>. Examples of such systems and devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,524,320 which has been herein incorporated by reference. Thus, various details of such devices will not be described in detail herein beyond that which may be necessary to understand various embodiments and forms of the present invention. As is known, the master controller <b>11001</b> generally includes master controllers (generally represented as <b>11003</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 96</figref>) which are grasped by the surgeon and manipulated in space while the surgeon views the procedure via a stereo display <b>11002</b>. The master controllers <b>11001</b> generally comprise manual input devices which preferably move with multiple degrees of freedom, and which often further have an actuatable handle for actuating tools (for example, for closing grasping saws, applying an electrical potential to an electrode, or the like).

0303As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 97</figref>, in one form, the robotic arm cart <b>11100</b> is configured to actuate a plurality of surgical tools, generally designated as <b>11200</b>. Various robotic surgery systems and methods employing master controller and robotic arm cart arrangements are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,132,368, entitled MULTI-COMPONENT TELEPRESENCE SYSTEM AND METHOD, the full disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In various forms, the robotic arm cart <b>11100</b> includes a base <b>11002</b> from which, in the illustrated embodiment, three surgical tools <b>11200</b> are supported. In various forms, the surgical tools <b>11200</b> are each supported by a series of manually articulatable linkages, generally referred to as set-up joints <b>11104</b>, and a robotic manipulator <b>11106</b>. These structures are herein illustrated with protective covers extending over much of the robotic linkage. These protective covers may be optional, and may be limited in size or entirely eliminated in some embodiments to minimize the inertia that is encountered by the servo mechanisms used to manipulate such devices, to limit the volume of moving components so as to avoid collisions, and to limit the overall weight of the cart <b>11100</b>. Cart <b>11100</b> will generally have dimensions suitable for transporting the cart <b>11100</b> between operating rooms. The cart <b>11100</b> may be configured to typically fit through standard operating room doors and onto standard hospital elevators. In various forms, the cart <b>11100</b> would preferably have a weight and include a wheel (or other transportation) system that allows the cart <b>1100</b> to be positioned adjacent an operating table by a single attendant.

0304Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 98</figref>, in at least one form, robotic manipulators <b>11106</b> may include a linkage <b>11108</b> that constrains movement of the surgical tool <b>11200</b>. In various embodiments, linkage <b>11108</b> includes rigid links coupled together by rotational joints in a parallelogram arrangement so that the surgical tool <b>11200</b> rotates around a point in space <b>11110</b>, as more fully described in issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,817,084, the full disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference. The parallelogram arrangement constrains rotation to pivoting about an axis <b>11112</b><i>a</i>, sometimes called the pitch axis. The links supporting the parallelogram linkage are pivotally mounted to set-up joints <b>11104</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 97</figref>) so that the surgical tool <b>11200</b> further rotates about an axis <b>11112</b><i>b</i>, sometimes called the yaw axis. The pitch and yaw axes <b>11112</b><i>a</i>, <b>11112</b><i>b </i>intersect at the remote center <b>11114</b>, which is aligned along a shaft <b>11208</b> of the surgical tool <b>11200</b>. The surgical tool <b>11200</b> may have further degrees of driven freedom as supported by manipulator <b>11106</b>, including sliding motion of the surgical tool <b>11200</b> along the longitudinal tool axis “LT-LT”. As the surgical tool <b>11200</b> slides along the tool axis LT-LT relative to manipulator <b>11106</b> (arrow <b>11112</b><i>c</i>), remote center <b>11114</b> remains fixed relative to base <b>11116</b> of manipulator <b>11106</b>. Hence, the entire manipulator is generally moved to re-position remote center <b>11114</b>. Linkage <b>11108</b> of manipulator <b>11106</b> is driven by a series of motors <b>11120</b>. These motors actively move linkage <b>11108</b> in response to commands from a processor of a control system. As will be discussed in further detail below, motors <b>11120</b> are also employed to manipulate the surgical tool <b>11200</b>.

0305An alternative set-up joint structure is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 99</figref>. In this embodiment, a surgical tool <b>11200</b> is supported by an alternative manipulator structure <b>11106</b>′ between two tissue manipulation tools. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that various embodiments of the present invention may incorporate a wide variety of alternative robotic structures, including those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,878,193, entitled AUTOMATED ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM FOR OPTIMAL POSITIONING, the full disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, while the data communication between a robotic component and the processor of the robotic surgical system is primarily described herein with reference to communication between the surgical tool <b>11200</b> and the master controller <b>11001</b>, it should be understood that similar communication may take place between circuitry of a manipulator, a set-up joint, an endoscope or other image capture device, or the like, and the processor of the robotic surgical system for component compatibility verification, component-type identification, component calibration (such as off-set or the like) communication, confirmation of coupling of the component to the robotic surgical system, or the like.

0306An exemplary non-limiting surgical tool <b>11200</b> that is well-adapted for use with a robotic system <b>11000</b> that has a tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 101</figref>) that is operatively coupled to a master controller <b>11001</b> that is operable by inputs from an operator (i.e., a surgeon) is depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 100</figref>. As can be seen in that Figure, the surgical tool <b>11200</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>12012</b> that comprises an endocutter. In at least one form, the surgical tool <b>11200</b> generally includes an elongated shaft assembly <b>12008</b> that has a proximal closure tube <b>12040</b> and a distal closure tube <b>12042</b> that are coupled together by an articulation joint <b>12011</b>. The surgical tool <b>11200</b> is operably coupled to the manipulator by a tool mounting portion, generally designated as <b>11300</b>. The surgical tool <b>11200</b> further includes an interface <b>11230</b> which mechanically and electrically couples the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> to the manipulator. One form of interface <b>11230</b> is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 101-105</figref>. In various embodiments, the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> includes a tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> that operably supports a plurality of (four are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>) rotatable body portions, driven discs or elements <b>11304</b>, that each include a pair of pins <b>11306</b> that extend from a surface of the driven element <b>11304</b>. One pin <b>11306</b> is closer to an axis of rotation of each driven elements <b>11304</b> than the other pin <b>11306</b> on the same driven element <b>11304</b>, which helps to ensure positive angular alignment of the driven element <b>11304</b>. Interface <b>11230</b> includes an adaptor portion <b>11240</b> that is configured to mountingly engage the mounting plate <b>11302</b> as will be further discussed below. The adaptor portion <b>11240</b> may include an array of electrical connecting pins <b>11242</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 103</figref>) which may be coupled to a memory structure by a circuit board within the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b>. While interface <b>11230</b> is described herein with reference to mechanical, electrical, and magnetic coupling elements, it should be understood that a wide variety of telemetry modalities might be used, including infrared, inductive coupling, or the like.

0307As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 101-104</figref>, the adapter portion <b>11240</b> generally includes a tool side <b>11244</b> and a holder side <b>11246</b>. In various forms, a plurality of rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> are mounted to a floating plate <b>11248</b> which has a limited range of movement relative to the surrounding adaptor structure normal to the major surfaces of the adaptor <b>11240</b>. Axial movement of the floating plate <b>11248</b> helps decouple the rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> from the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> when the levers <b>11303</b> along the sides of the tool mounting portion housing <b>11301</b> are actuated (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 100</figref>). Other mechanisms/arrangements may be employed for releasably coupling the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> to the adaptor <b>11240</b>. In at least one form, rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> are resiliently mounted to floating plate <b>11248</b> by resilient radial members which extend into a circumferential indentation about the rotatable bodies <b>11250</b>. The rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> can move axially relative to plate <b>11248</b> by deflection of these resilient structures. When disposed in a first axial position (toward tool side <b>11244</b>) the rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> are free to rotate without angular limitation. However, as the rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> move axially toward tool side <b>11244</b>, tabs <b>11252</b> (extending radially from the rotatable bodies <b>11250</b>) laterally engage detents on the floating plates so as to limit angular rotation of the rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> about their axes. This limited rotation can be used to help drivingly engage the rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> with drive pins <b>11272</b> of a corresponding tool holder portion <b>11270</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>, as the drive pins <b>11272</b> will push the rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> into the limited rotation position until the pins <b>11234</b> are aligned with (and slide into) openings <b>11256</b>′. Openings <b>11256</b> on the tool side <b>11244</b> and openings <b>11256</b>′ on the holder side <b>11246</b> of rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> are configured to accurately align the driven elements <b>11304</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>) of the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> with the drive elements <b>11271</b> of the tool holder <b>11270</b>. As described above regarding inner and outer pins <b>11306</b> of driven elements <b>11304</b>, the openings <b>11256</b>, <b>11256</b>′ are at differing distances from the axis of rotation on their respective rotatable bodies <b>11250</b> so as to ensure that the alignment is not 180 degrees from its intended position. Additionally, each of the openings <b>11256</b> is slightly radially elongated so as to fittingly receive the pins <b>11306</b> in the circumferential orientation. This allows the pins <b>11306</b> to slide radially within the openings <b>11256</b>, <b>11256</b>′ and accommodate some axial misalignment between the tool <b>11200</b> and tool holder <b>11270</b>, while minimizing any angular misalignment and backlash between the drive and driven elements. Openings <b>11256</b> on the tool side <b>11244</b> are offset by about 90 degrees from the openings <b>11256</b>′ (shown in broken lines) on the holder side <b>11246</b>, as can be seen most clearly in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 104</figref>.

0308Various embodiments may further include an array of electrical connector pins <b>11242</b> located on holder side <b>11246</b> of adaptor <b>11240</b>, and the tool side <b>11244</b> of the adaptor <b>11240</b> may include slots <b>11258</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 104</figref>) for receiving a pin array (not shown) from the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b>. In addition to transmitting electrical signals between the surgical tool <b>11200</b> and the tool holder <b>11270</b>, at least some of these electrical connections may be coupled to an adaptor memory device <b>11260</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 103</figref>) by a circuit board of the adaptor <b>11240</b>.

0309A detachable latch arrangement <b>11239</b> may be employed to releasably affix the adaptor <b>11240</b> to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. As used herein, the term “tool drive assembly” when used in the context of the robotic system <b>11000</b>, at least encompasses various embodiments of the adapter <b>11240</b> and tool holder <b>11270</b> and which has been generally designated as <b>11010</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 101</figref>. For example, as can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 101</figref>, the tool holder <b>11270</b> may include a first latch pin arrangement <b>11274</b> that is sized to be received in corresponding clevis slots <b>11241</b> provided in the adaptor <b>11240</b>. In addition, the tool holder <b>11270</b> may further have second latch pins <b>11276</b> that are sized to be retained in corresponding latch devises <b>11243</b> in the adaptor <b>11240</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 103</figref>. In at least one form, a latch assembly <b>11245</b> is movably supported on the adapter <b>1240</b> and is biasable between a first latched position wherein the latch pins <b>11276</b> are retained within their respective latch clevis <b>11243</b> and an unlatched position wherein the second latch pins <b>11276</b> may be into or removed from the latch devises <b>11243</b>. A spring or springs (not shown) are employed to bias the latch assembly into the latched position. A lip on the tool side <b>11244</b> of adaptor <b>11240</b> may slidably receive laterally extending tabs of tool mounting housing <b>11301</b>.

0310Turning next to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105-112</figref>, in at least one embodiment, the surgical tool <b>11200</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>12012</b> that comprises in this example, among other things, at least one component <b>12024</b> that is selectively movable between first and second positions relative to at least one other component <b>12022</b> in response to various control motions applied thereto as will be discussed in further detail below. In various embodiments, component <b>12022</b> comprises an elongated channel <b>12022</b> configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b> therein and component <b>12024</b> comprises a pivotally translatable clamping member, such as an anvil <b>12024</b>. Various embodiments of the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> are configured to maintain the anvil <b>12024</b> and elongated channel <b>12022</b> at a spacing that assures effective stapling and severing of tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 111</figref>, the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> further includes a cutting instrument <b>12032</b> and a sled <b>12033</b>. The cutting instrument <b>12032</b> may be, for example, a knife. The surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b> operably houses a plurality of surgical staples (not show) therein that are supported on movable staple drivers (not shown). As the cutting instrument <b>12032</b> is driven distally through a centrally-disposed slot (not shown) in the surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b>, it forces the sled <b>12033</b> distally as well. As the sled <b>12033</b> is driven distally, its “wedge-shaped” configuration contacts the movable staple drivers and drives them vertically toward the closed anvil <b>12024</b>. The surgical staples are formed as they are driven into the forming surface located on the underside of the anvil <b>12024</b>. The sled <b>12033</b> may be part of the surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b>, such that when the cutting instrument <b>12032</b> is retracted following the cutting operation, the sled <b>12033</b> does not retract. The anvil <b>12024</b> may be pivotably opened and closed at a pivot point <b>12025</b> located at the proximal end of the elongated channel <b>12022</b>. The anvil <b>12024</b> may also include a tab <b>12027</b> at its proximal end that interacts with a component of the mechanical closure system (described further below) to facilitate the opening of the anvil <b>12024</b>. The elongated channel <b>12022</b> and the anvil <b>12024</b> may be made of an electrically conductive material (such as metal) so that they may serve as part of an antenna that communicates with sensor(s) in the end effector, as described above. The surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b> could be made of a nonconductive material (such as plastic) and the sensor may be connected to or disposed in the surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b>, as was also described above.

0311As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105-112</figref>, the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> is attached to the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> by an elongated shaft assembly <b>12008</b> according to various embodiments. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the shaft assembly <b>12008</b> includes an articulation joint generally indicated as <b>12011</b> that enables the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> to be selectively articulated about an articulation axis AA-AA that is substantially transverse to a longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 106</figref>. In other embodiments, the articulation joint is omitted. In various embodiments, the shaft assembly <b>12008</b> may include a closure tube assembly <b>12009</b> that comprises a proximal closure tube <b>12040</b> and a distal closure tube <b>12042</b> that are pivotably linked by a pivot links <b>12044</b> and operably supported on a spine assembly generally depicted as <b>12049</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, the spine assembly <b>12049</b> comprises a distal spine portion <b>12050</b> that is attached to the elongated channel <b>12022</b> and is pivotally coupled to the proximal spine portion <b>12052</b>. The closure tube assembly <b>12009</b> is configured to axially slide on the spine assembly <b>12049</b> in response to actuation motions applied thereto. The distal closure tube <b>12042</b> includes an opening <b>12045</b> into which the tab <b>12027</b> on the anvil <b>12024</b> is inserted in order to facilitate opening of the anvil <b>12024</b> as the distal closure tube <b>12042</b> is moved axially in the proximal direction “PD”. The closure tubes <b>12040</b>, <b>12042</b> may be made of electrically conductive material (such as metal) so that they may serve as part of the antenna, as described above. Components of the main drive shaft assembly (e.g., the drive shafts <b>12048</b>, <b>12050</b>) may be made of a nonconductive material (such as plastic).

0312In use, it may be desirable to rotate the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. In at least one embodiment, the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> includes a rotational transmission assembly <b>12069</b> that is configured to receive a corresponding rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> and convert that rotary output motion to a rotary control motion for rotating the elongated shaft assembly <b>12008</b> (and surgical end effector <b>12012</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. In various embodiments, for example, the proximal end <b>12060</b> of the proximal closure tube <b>12040</b> is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> by a forward support cradle <b>11309</b> and a closure sled <b>12100</b> that is also movably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b>. In at least one form, the rotational transmission assembly <b>12069</b> includes a tube gear segment <b>12062</b> that is formed on (or attached to) the proximal end <b>12060</b> of the proximal closure tube <b>12040</b> for operable engagement by a rotational gear assembly <b>12070</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 108</figref>, the rotational gear assembly <b>12070</b>, in at least one embodiment, comprises a rotation drive gear <b>12072</b> that is coupled to a corresponding first one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> is coupled to the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>. The rotational gear assembly <b>12070</b> further comprises a rotary driven gear <b>12074</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> in meshing engagement with the tube gear segment <b>12062</b> and the rotation drive gear <b>12072</b>. Application of a first rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>12072</b>. Rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>12072</b> ultimately results in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>12008</b> (and the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT (represented by arrow “R” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 108</figref>). It will be appreciated that the application of a rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> in one direction will result in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>12008</b> and surgical end effector <b>12012</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT in a first direction and an application of the rotary output motion in an opposite direction will result in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>12008</b> and surgical end effector <b>12012</b> in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction.

0313In at least one embodiment, the closure of the anvil <b>12024</b> relative to the staple cartridge <b>12034</b> is accomplished by axially moving the closure tube assembly <b>12009</b> in the distal direction “DD” on the spine assembly <b>12049</b>. As indicated above, in various embodiments, the proximal end <b>12060</b> of the proximal closure tube <b>12040</b> is supported by the closure sled <b>12100</b> which comprises a portion of a closure transmission, generally depicted as <b>12099</b>. In at least one form, the closure sled <b>12100</b> is configured to support the closure tube <b>12009</b> on the tool mounting plate <b>11320</b> such that the proximal closure tube <b>12040</b> can rotate relative to the closure sled <b>12100</b>, yet travel axially with the closure sled <b>12100</b>. In particular, as can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 113</figref>, the closure sled <b>12100</b> has an upstanding tab <b>12101</b> that extends into a radial groove <b>12063</b> in the proximal end portion of the proximal closure tube <b>12040</b>. In addition, as can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 110 and 113</figref>, the closure sled <b>12100</b> has a tab portion <b>12102</b> that extends through a slot <b>11305</b> in the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b>. The tab portion <b>12102</b> is configured to retain the closure sled <b>12100</b> in sliding engagement with the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b>. In various embodiments, the closure sled <b>12100</b> has an upstanding portion <b>12104</b> that has a closure rack gear <b>12106</b> formed thereon. The closure rack gear <b>12106</b> is configured for driving engagement with a closure gear assembly <b>12110</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 110</figref>.

0314In various forms, the closure gear assembly <b>12110</b> includes a closure spur gear <b>12112</b> that is coupled to a corresponding second one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>. Thus, application of a second rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> to the corresponding second driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the closure spur gear <b>12112</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> is coupled to the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b>. The closure gear assembly <b>12110</b> further includes a closure reduction gear set <b>12114</b> that is supported in meshing engagement with the closure spur gear <b>12112</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 109 and 110</figref>, the closure reduction gear set <b>12114</b> includes a driven gear <b>12116</b> that is rotatably supported in meshing engagement with the closure spur gear <b>12112</b>. The closure reduction gear set <b>12114</b> further includes a first closure drive gear <b>12118</b> that is in meshing engagement with a second closure drive gear <b>12120</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> in meshing engagement with the closure rack gear <b>12106</b>. Thus, application of a second rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> to the corresponding second driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the closure spur gear <b>12112</b> and the closure transmission <b>12110</b> and ultimately drive the closure sled <b>12100</b> and closure tube assembly <b>12009</b> axially. The axial direction in which the closure tube assembly <b>12009</b> moves ultimately depends upon the direction in which the second driven element <b>11304</b> is rotated. For example, in response to one rotary output motion received from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the closure sled <b>12100</b> will be driven in the distal direction “DD” and ultimately drive the closure tube assembly <b>11009</b> in the distal direction. As the distal closure tube <b>12042</b> is driven distally, the end of the closure tube segment <b>12042</b> will engage a portion of the anvil <b>12024</b> and cause the anvil <b>12024</b> to pivot to a closed position. Upon application of an “opening” out put motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the closure sled <b>12100</b> and shaft assembly <b>12008</b> will be driven in the proximal direction “PD”. As the distal closure tube <b>12042</b> is driven in the proximal direction, the opening <b>12045</b> therein interacts with the tab <b>12027</b> on the anvil <b>12024</b> to facilitate the opening thereof. In various embodiments, a spring (not shown) may be employed to bias the anvil to the open position when the distal closure tube <b>12042</b> has been moved to its starting position. In various embodiments, the various gears of the closure gear assembly <b>12110</b> are sized to generate the necessary closure forces needed to satisfactorily close the anvil <b>12024</b> onto the tissue to be cut and stapled by the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>. For example, the gears of the closure transmission <b>12110</b> may be sized to generate approximately 70-120 pounds.

0315In various embodiments, the cutting instrument <b>12032</b> is driven through the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> by a knife bar <b>12200</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 111 and 113</figref>. In at least one form, the knife bar <b>12200</b> may be fabricated from, for example, stainless steel or other similar material and has a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape. Such knife bar configuration is sufficiently rigid to push the cutting instrument <b>12032</b> through tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>, while still being flexible enough to enable the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> to articulate relative to the proximal closure tube <b>12040</b> and the proximal spine portion <b>12052</b> about the articulation axis AA-AA as will be discussed in further detail below. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 114 and 115</figref>, the proximal spine portion <b>12052</b> has a rectangular-shaped passage <b>12054</b> extending therethrough to provide support to the knife bar <b>12200</b> as it is axially pushed therethrough. The proximal spine portion <b>12052</b> has a proximal end <b>12056</b> that is rotatably mounted to a spine mounting bracket <b>12057</b> attached to the tool mounting plate <b>11032</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 113</figref>. Such arrangement permits the proximal spine portion <b>12052</b> to rotate, but not move axially, within the proximal closure tube <b>12040</b>.

0316As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 111</figref>, the distal end <b>12202</b> of the knife bar <b>12200</b> is attached to the cutting instrument <b>12032</b>. The proximal end <b>12204</b> of the knife bar <b>12200</b> is rotatably affixed to a knife rack gear <b>12206</b> such that the knife bar <b>12200</b> is free to rotate relative to the knife rack gear <b>12206</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 113</figref>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 107-112</figref>, the knife rack gear <b>12206</b> is slidably supported within a rack housing <b>12210</b> that is attached to the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> such that the knife rack gear <b>12206</b> is retained in meshing engagement with a knife gear assembly <b>12220</b>. More specifically and with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 110</figref>, in at least one embodiment, the knife gear assembly <b>12220</b> includes a knife spur gear <b>12222</b> that is coupled to a corresponding third one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>. Thus, application of another rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> to the corresponding third driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the knife spur gear <b>12222</b>. The knife gear assembly <b>12220</b> further includes a knife gear reduction set <b>12224</b> that includes a first knife driven gear <b>12226</b> and a second knife drive gear <b>12228</b>. The knife gear reduction set <b>12224</b> is rotatably mounted to the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> such that the first knife driven gear <b>12226</b> is in meshing engagement with the knife spur gear <b>12222</b>. Likewise, the second knife drive gear <b>12228</b> is in meshing engagement with a third knife drive gear <b>12230</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> in meshing engagement with the knife rack gear <b>12206</b>. In various embodiments, the gears of the knife gear assembly <b>12220</b> are sized to generate the forces needed to drive the cutting element <b>12032</b> through the tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> and actuate the staples therein. For example, the gears of the knife drive assembly <b>12230</b> may be sized to generate approximately 40 to 100 pounds. It will be appreciated that the application of a rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> in one direction will result in the axial movement of the cutting instrument <b>12032</b> in a distal direction and application of the rotary output motion in an opposite direction will result in the axial travel of the cutting instrument <b>12032</b> in a proximal direction.

0317In various embodiments, the surgical tool <b>11200</b> employs and articulation system <b>12007</b> that includes an articulation joint <b>12011</b> that enables the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> to be articulated about an articulation axis AA-AA that is substantially transverse to the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. In at least one embodiment, the surgical tool <b>11200</b> includes first and second articulation bars <b>12250</b><i>a</i>, <b>12250</b><i>b </i>that are slidably supported within corresponding passages <b>12053</b> provided through the proximal spine portion <b>12052</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 113 and 115</figref>. In at least one form, the first and second articulation bars <b>12250</b><i>a</i>, <b>12250</b><i>b </i>are actuated by an articulation transmission generally designated as <b>12249</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>11032</b>. Each of the articulation bars <b>12250</b><i>a</i>, <b>12250</b><i>b </i>has a proximal end <b>12252</b> that has a guide rod protruding therefrom which extend laterally through a corresponding slot in the proximal end portion of the proximal spine portion <b>12052</b> and into a corresponding arcuate slot in an articulation nut <b>12260</b> which comprises a portion of the articulation transmission.

0318<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 114</figref> illustrates articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>a</i>. It will be understood that articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>b </i>is similarly constructed. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 114</figref>, for example, the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>a </i>has a guide rod <b>12254</b> which extends laterally through a corresponding slot <b>12058</b> in the proximal end portion <b>12056</b> of the distal spine portion <b>12050</b> and into a corresponding arcuate slot <b>12262</b> in the articulation nut <b>12260</b>. In addition, the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>a </i>has a distal end <b>12251</b><i>a </i>that is pivotally coupled to the distal spine portion <b>12050</b> by, for example, a pin <b>12253</b><i>a </i>and articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>b </i>has a distal end <b>12251</b><i>b </i>that is pivotally coupled to the distal spine portion <b>12050</b> by, for example, a pin <b>12253</b><i>b</i>. In particular, the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>a </i>is laterally offset in a first lateral direction from the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT and the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>b </i>is laterally offset in a second lateral direction from the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. Thus, axial movement of the articulation bars <b>12250</b><i>a </i>and <b>12250</b><i>b </i>in opposing directions will result in the articulation of the distal spine portion <b>12050</b> as well as the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> attached thereto about the articulation axis AA-AA as will be discussed in further detail below.

0319Articulation of the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> is controlled by rotating the articulation nut <b>12260</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. The articulation nut <b>12260</b> is rotatably journaled on the proximal end portion <b>12056</b> of the distal spine portion <b>12050</b> and is rotatably driven thereon by an articulation gear assembly <b>12270</b>. More specifically and with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 108</figref>, in at least one embodiment, the articulation gear assembly <b>12270</b> includes an articulation spur gear <b>12272</b> that is coupled to a corresponding fourth one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>. Thus, application of another rotary input motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> to the corresponding fourth driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the articulation spur gear <b>12272</b> when the interface <b>11230</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. An articulation drive gear <b>12274</b> is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> in meshing engagement with the articulation spur gear <b>12272</b> and a gear portion <b>12264</b> of the articulation nut <b>12260</b> as shown. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 113 and 114</figref>, the articulation nut <b>12260</b> has a shoulder <b>12266</b> formed thereon that defines an annular groove <b>12267</b> for receiving retaining posts <b>12268</b> therein. Retaining posts <b>12268</b> are attached to the tool mounting plate <b>11302</b> and serve to prevent the articulation nut <b>12260</b> from moving axially on the proximal spine portion <b>12052</b> while maintaining the ability to be rotated relative thereto. Thus, rotation of the articulation nut <b>12260</b> in a first direction, will result in the axial movement of the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>a </i>in a distal direction “DD” and the axial movement of the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>b </i>in a proximal direction “PD” because of the interaction of the guide rods <b>12254</b> with the spiral slots <b>12262</b> in the articulation gear <b>12260</b>. Similarly, rotation of the articulation nut <b>12260</b> in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction will result in the axial movement of the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>a </i>in the proximal direction “PD” as well as cause articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>b </i>to axially move in the distal direction “DD”. Thus, the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> may be selectively articulated about articulation axis “AA-AA” in a first direction “FD” by simultaneously moving the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>a </i>in the distal direction “DD” and the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>b </i>in the proximal direction “PD”. Likewise, the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> may be selectively articulated about the articulation axis “AA-AA” in a second direction “SD” by simultaneously moving the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>a </i>in the proximal direction “PD” and the articulation bar <b>12250</b><i>b </i>in the distal direction “DD.” See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 106</figref>.

0320The tool embodiment described above employs an interface arrangement that is particularly well-suited for mounting the robotically controllable medical tool onto at least one form of robotic arm arrangement that generates at least four different rotary control motions. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that such rotary output motions may be selectively controlled through the programmable control systems employed by the robotic system/controller. For example, the tool arrangement described above may be well-suited for use with those robotic systems manufactured by Intuitive Surgical, Inc. of Sunnyvale, Calif., U.S.A., many of which may be described in detail in various patents incorporated herein by reference. The unique and novel aspects of various embodiments of the present invention serve to utilize the rotary output motions supplied by the robotic system to generate specific control motions having sufficient magnitudes that enable end effectors to cut and staple tissue. Thus, the unique arrangements and principles of various embodiments of the present invention may enable a variety of different forms of the tool systems disclosed and claimed herein to be effectively employed in connection with other types and forms of robotic systems that supply programmed rotary or other output motions. In addition, as will become further apparent as the present Detailed Description proceeds, various end effector embodiments of the present invention that require other forms of actuation motions may also be effectively actuated utilizing one or more of the control motions generated by the robotic system.

0321<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 117-121</figref> illustrate yet another surgical tool <b>12300</b> that may be effectively employed in connection with the robotic system <b>11000</b> that has a tool drive assembly that is operably coupled to a controller of the robotic system that is operable by inputs from an operator and which is configured to provide at least one rotary output motion to at least one rotatable body portion supported on the tool drive assembly. In various forms, the surgical tool <b>12300</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>12312</b> that includes an elongated channel <b>12322</b> and a pivotally translatable clamping member, such as an anvil <b>12324</b>, which are maintained at a spacing that assures effective stapling and severing of tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>12312</b>. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the surgical end effector <b>12312</b> may include, in addition to the previously-mentioned elongated channel <b>12322</b> and anvil <b>12324</b>, a cutting instrument <b>12332</b> that has a sled portion <b>12333</b> formed thereon, a surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b> that is seated in the elongated channel <b>12322</b>, and a rotary end effector drive shaft <b>12336</b> that has a helical screw thread formed thereon. The cutting instrument <b>12332</b> may be, for example, a knife. As will be discussed in further detail below, rotation of the end effector drive shaft <b>12336</b> will cause the cutting instrument <b>12332</b> and sled portion <b>12333</b> to axially travel through the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b> to move between a starting position and an ending position. The direction of axial travel of the cutting instrument <b>12332</b> depends upon the direction in which the end effector drive shaft <b>12336</b> is rotated. The anvil <b>12324</b> may be pivotably opened and closed at a pivot point <b>12325</b> connected to the proximate end of the elongated channel <b>12322</b>. The anvil <b>12324</b> may also include a tab <b>12327</b> at its proximate end that operably interfaces with a component of the mechanical closure system (described further below) to open and close the anvil <b>12324</b>. When the end effector drive shaft <b>12336</b> is rotated, the cutting instrument <b>12332</b> and sled <b>12333</b> will travel longitudinally through the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b> from the starting position to the ending position, thereby cutting tissue clamped within the surgical end effector <b>12312</b>. The movement of the sled <b>12333</b> through the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b> causes the staples therein to be driven through the severed tissue and against the closed anvil <b>12324</b>, which turns the staples to fasten the severed tissue. In one form, the elongated channel <b>12322</b> and the anvil <b>12324</b> may be made of an electrically conductive material (such as metal) so that they may serve as part of the antenna that communicates with sensor(s) in the end effector, as described above. The surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b> could be made of a nonconductive material (such as plastic) and the sensor may be connected to or disposed in the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b>, as described above.

0322It should be noted that although the embodiments of the surgical tool <b>12300</b> described herein employ a surgical end effector <b>12312</b> that staples the severed tissue, in other embodiments different techniques for fastening or sealing the severed tissue may be used. For example, end effectors that use RF energy or adhesives to fasten the severed tissue may also be used. U.S. Pat. No. 5,709,680, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE and U.S. Pat. No. 5,688,270, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE WITH RECESSED AND/OR OFFSET ELECTRODES, which are incorporated herein by reference, discloses cutting instruments that use RF energy to fasten the severed tissue. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/267,811, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,673,783 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/267,383, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,607,557, which are also incorporated herein by reference, disclose cutting instruments that use adhesives to fasten the severed tissue. Accordingly, although the description herein refers to cutting/stapling operations and the like, it should be recognized that this is an exemplary embodiment and is not meant to be limiting. Other tissue-fastening techniques may also be used.

0323In the illustrated embodiment, the surgical end effector <b>12312</b> is coupled to an elongated shaft assembly <b>12308</b> that is coupled to a tool mounting portion <b>12460</b> and defines a longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. In this embodiment, the elongated shaft assembly <b>12308</b> does not include an articulation joint. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that other embodiments may have an articulation joint therein. In at least one embodiment, the elongated shaft assembly <b>12308</b> comprises a hollow outer tube <b>12340</b> that is rotatably supported on a tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> of a tool mounting portion <b>12460</b> as will be discussed in further detail below. In various embodiments, the elongated shaft assembly <b>12308</b> further includes a distal spine shaft <b>12350</b>. Distal spine shaft <b>12350</b> has a distal end portion <b>12354</b> that is coupled to, or otherwise integrally formed with, a distal stationary base portion <b>12360</b> that is non-movably coupled to the channel <b>12322</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 118-120</figref>.

0324As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 115</figref>, the distal spine shaft <b>12350</b> has a proximal end portion <b>12351</b> that is slidably received within a slot <b>12355</b> in a proximal spine shaft <b>12353</b> that is non-movably supported within the hollow outer tube <b>12340</b> by at least one support collar <b>12357</b>. As can be further seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 118 and 119</figref>, the surgical tool <b>12300</b> includes a closure tube <b>12370</b> that is constrained to only move axially relative to the distal stationary base portion <b>12360</b>. The closure tube <b>12370</b> has a proximal end <b>12372</b> that has an internal thread <b>12374</b> formed therein that is in threaded engagement with a transmission arrangement, generally depicted as <b>12375</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b>. In various forms, the transmission arrangement <b>12375</b> includes a rotary drive shaft assembly, generally designated as <b>12381</b>. When rotated, the rotary drive shaft assembly <b>12381</b> will cause the closure tube <b>12370</b> to move axially as will be describe in further detail below. In at least one form, the rotary drive shaft assembly <b>12381</b> includes a closure drive nut <b>12382</b> of a closure clutch assembly generally designated as <b>12380</b>. More specifically, the closure drive nut <b>12382</b> has a proximal end portion <b>12384</b> that is rotatably supported relative to the outer tube <b>12340</b> and is in threaded engagement with the closure tube <b>12370</b>. For assembly purposes, the proximal end portion <b>12384</b> may be threadably attached to a retention ring <b>12386</b>. Retention ring <b>12386</b>, in cooperation with an end <b>12387</b> of the closure drive nut <b>12382</b>, defines an annular slot <b>12388</b> into which a shoulder <b>12392</b> of a locking collar <b>12390</b> extends. The locking collar <b>12390</b> is non-movably attached (e.g., welded, glued, etc.) to the end of the outer tube <b>12340</b>. Such arrangement serves to affix the closure drive nut <b>12382</b> to the outer tube <b>12340</b> while enabling the closure drive nut <b>12382</b> to rotate relative to the outer tube <b>12340</b>. The closure drive nut <b>12382</b> further has a distal end <b>12383</b> that has a threaded portion <b>12385</b> that threadably engages the internal thread <b>12374</b> of the closure tube <b>12370</b>. Thus, rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12382</b> will cause the closure tube <b>12370</b> to move axially as represented by arrow “D” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 119</figref>.

0325Closure of the anvil <b>12324</b> and actuation of the cutting instrument <b>12332</b> are accomplished by control motions that are transmitted by a hollow drive sleeve <b>12400</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 118 and 119</figref>, the hollow drive sleeve <b>12400</b> is rotatably and slidably received on the distal spine shaft <b>12350</b>. The drive sleeve <b>12400</b> has a proximal end portion <b>12401</b> that is rotatably mounted to the proximal spine shaft <b>12353</b> that protrudes from the tool mounting portion <b>12460</b> such that the drive sleeve <b>12400</b> may rotate relative thereto. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 118</figref>. As can also be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 118-120</figref>, the drive sleeve <b>12400</b> is rotated about the longitudinal tool axis “LT-LT” by a drive shaft <b>12440</b>. The drive shaft <b>12440</b> has a drive gear <b>12444</b> that is attached to its distal end <b>12442</b> and is in meshing engagement with a driven gear <b>12450</b> that is attached to the drive sleeve <b>12400</b>.

0326The drive sleeve <b>12400</b> further has a distal end portion <b>12402</b> that is coupled to a closure clutch <b>12410</b> portion of the closure clutch assembly <b>12380</b> that has a proximal face <b>12412</b> and a distal face <b>12414</b>. The proximal face <b>12412</b> has a series of proximal teeth <b>12416</b> formed thereon that are adapted for selective engagement with corresponding proximal teeth cavities <b>12418</b> formed in the proximal end portion <b>12384</b> of the closure drive nut <b>12382</b>. Thus, when the proximal teeth <b>12416</b> are in meshing engagement with the proximal teeth cavities <b>12418</b> in the closure drive nut <b>12382</b>, rotation of the drive sleeve <b>12400</b> will result in rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12382</b> and ultimately cause the closure tube <b>12370</b> to move axially as will be discussed in further detail below.

0327As can be most particularly seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 118 and 119</figref>, the distal face <b>12414</b> of the drive clutch portion <b>12410</b> has a series of distal teeth <b>12415</b> formed thereon that are adapted for selective engagement with corresponding distal teeth cavities <b>12426</b> formed in a face plate portion <b>12424</b> of a knife drive shaft assembly <b>12420</b>. In various embodiments, the knife drive shaft assembly <b>12420</b> comprises a hollow knife shaft segment <b>12430</b> that is rotatably received on a corresponding portion of the distal spine shaft <b>12350</b> that is attached to or protrudes from the stationary base <b>12360</b>. When the distal teeth <b>12415</b> of the closure clutch portion <b>12410</b> are in meshing engagement with the distal teeth cavities <b>12426</b> in the face plate portion <b>12424</b>, rotation of the drive sleeve <b>12400</b> will result in rotation of the drive shaft segment <b>12430</b> about the stationary shaft <b>12350</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 118-120</figref>, a knife drive gear <b>12432</b> is attached to the drive shaft segment <b>12430</b> and is meshing engagement with a drive knife gear <b>12434</b> that is attached to the end effector drive shaft <b>12336</b>. Thus, rotation of the drive shaft segment <b>12430</b> will result in the rotation of the end effector drive shaft <b>12336</b> to drive the cutting instrument <b>12332</b> and sled <b>12333</b> distally through the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b> to cut and staple tissue clamped within the surgical end effector <b>12312</b>. The sled <b>12333</b> may be made of, for example, plastic, and may have a sloped distal surface. As the sled <b>12333</b> traverses the elongated channel <b>12322</b>, the sloped forward surface of the sled <b>12333</b> pushes up or “drive” the staples in the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b> through the clamped tissue and against the anvil <b>12324</b>. The anvil <b>12324</b> turns or “forms” the staples, thereby stapling the severed tissue. As used herein, the term “fire” refers to the initiation of actions required to drive the cutting instrument and sled portion in a distal direction through the surgical staple cartridge to cut the tissue clamped in the surgical end effector and drive the staples through the severed tissue.

0328In use, it may be desirable to rotate the surgical end effector <b>12312</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. In at least one embodiment, the transmission arrangement <b>12375</b> includes a rotational transmission assembly <b>12465</b> that is configured to receive a corresponding rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> and convert that rotary output motion to a rotary control motion for rotating the elongated shaft assembly <b>12308</b> (and surgical end effector <b>12312</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 121</figref>, a proximal end <b>12341</b> of the outer tube <b>12340</b> is rotatably supported within a cradle arrangement <b>12343</b> attached to the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>12460</b>. A rotation gear <b>12345</b> is formed on or attached to the proximal end <b>12341</b> of the outer tube <b>12340</b> of the elongated shaft assembly <b>12308</b> for meshing engagement with a rotation gear assembly <b>12470</b> operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b>. In at least one embodiment, a rotation drive gear <b>12472</b> is coupled to a corresponding first one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>12460</b> is coupled to the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 121</figref>. The rotation drive assembly <b>12470</b> further comprises a rotary driven gear <b>12474</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> in meshing engagement with the rotation gear <b>12345</b> and the rotation drive gear <b>12472</b>. Application of a first rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>12472</b> by virtue of being operably coupled thereto. Rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>12472</b> ultimately results in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>12308</b> (and the end effector <b>12312</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT (primary rotary motion).

0329Closure of the anvil <b>12324</b> relative to the staple cartridge <b>12034</b> is accomplished by axially moving the closure tube <b>12370</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Axial movement of the closure tube <b>12370</b> in the distal direction “DD” is accomplished by applying a rotary control motion to the closure drive nut <b>12382</b>. To apply the rotary control motion to the closure drive nut <b>12382</b>, the closure clutch <b>12410</b> must first be brought into meshing engagement with the proximal end portion <b>12384</b> of the closure drive nut <b>12382</b>. In various embodiments, the transmission arrangement <b>12375</b> further includes a shifter drive assembly <b>12480</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b>. More specifically and with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 121</figref>, it can be seen that a proximal end portion <b>12359</b> of the proximal spine portion <b>12353</b> extends through the rotation gear <b>12345</b> and is rotatably coupled to a shifter gear rack <b>12481</b> that is slidably affixed to the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> through slots <b>12482</b>. The shifter drive assembly <b>12480</b> further comprises a shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> that is coupled to a corresponding second one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>12460</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 121</figref>. The shifter drive assembly <b>12480</b> further comprises a shifter driven gear <b>12478</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> in meshing engagement with the shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> and the shifter rack gear <b>12482</b>. Application of a second rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> by virtue of being operably coupled thereto. Rotation of the shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> ultimately results in the axial movement of the shifter gear rack <b>12482</b> and the proximal spine portion <b>12353</b> as well as the drive sleeve <b>12400</b> and the closure clutch <b>12410</b> attached thereto. The direction of axial travel of the closure clutch <b>12410</b> depends upon the direction in which the shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> is rotated by the robotic system <b>11000</b>. Thus, rotation of the shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> in a first rotary direction will result in the axial movement of the closure clutch <b>12410</b> in the proximal direction “PD” to bring the proximal teeth <b>12416</b> into meshing engagement with the proximal teeth cavities <b>12418</b> in the closure drive nut <b>12382</b>. Conversely, rotation of the shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> in a second rotary direction (opposite to the first rotary direction) will result in the axial movement of the closure clutch <b>12410</b> in the distal direction “DD” to bring the distal teeth <b>12415</b> into meshing engagement with corresponding distal teeth cavities <b>12426</b> formed in the face plate portion <b>12424</b> of the knife drive shaft assembly <b>12420</b>.

0330Once the closure clutch <b>12410</b> has been brought into meshing engagement with the closure drive nut <b>12382</b>, the closure drive nut <b>12382</b> is rotated by rotating the closure clutch <b>12410</b>. Rotation of the closure clutch <b>12410</b> is controlled by applying rotary output motions to a rotary drive transmission portion <b>12490</b> of transmission arrangement <b>12375</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 121</figref>. In at least one embodiment, the rotary drive transmission <b>12490</b> includes a rotary drive assembly <b>12490</b>′ that includes a gear <b>12491</b> that is coupled to a corresponding third one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>12460</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 121</figref>. The rotary drive transmission <b>12490</b> further comprises a first rotary driven gear <b>12492</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> in meshing engagement with a second rotary driven gear <b>12493</b> and the rotary drive gear <b>12491</b>. The second rotary driven gear <b>12493</b> is coupled to a proximal end portion <b>12443</b> of the drive shaft <b>12440</b>.

0331Rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>12491</b> in a first rotary direction will result in the rotation of the drive shaft <b>12440</b> in a first direction. Conversely, rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>12491</b> in a second rotary direction (opposite to the first rotary direction) will cause the drive shaft <b>12440</b> to rotate in a second direction. As indicated above, the drive shaft <b>12440</b> has a drive gear <b>12444</b> that is attached to its distal end <b>12442</b> and is in meshing engagement with a driven gear <b>12450</b> that is attached to the drive sleeve <b>12400</b>. Thus, rotation of the drive shaft <b>12440</b> results in rotation of the drive sleeve <b>12400</b>.

0332A method of operating the surgical tool <b>12300</b> will now be described. Once the tool mounting portion <b>12462</b> has been operably coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> and oriented into position adjacent the target tissue to be cut and stapled, if the anvil <b>12334</b> is not already in the open position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 118</figref>), the robotic system <b>11000</b> may apply the first rotary output motion to the shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> which results in the axial movement of the closure clutch <b>12410</b> into meshing engagement with the closure drive nut <b>12382</b> (if it is not already in meshing engagement therewith). See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 119</figref>. Once the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> has confirmed that the closure clutch <b>12410</b> is meshing engagement with the closure drive nut <b>12382</b> (e.g., by means of sensor(s)) in the surgical end effector <b>12312</b> that are in communication with the robotic control system), the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may then apply a second rotary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12492</b> which, as was described above, ultimately results in the rotation of the rotary drive nut <b>12382</b> in the first direction which results in the axial travel of the closure tube <b>12370</b> in the distal direction “DD”. As the closure tube <b>12370</b> moved in the distal direction, it contacts a portion of the anvil <b>12323</b> and causes the anvil <b>12324</b> to pivot to the closed position to clamp the target tissue between the anvil <b>12324</b> and the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b>. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> determines that the anvil <b>12334</b> has been pivoted to the closed position by corresponding sensor(s) in the surgical end effector <b>12312</b> in communication therewith, the robotic system <b>11000</b> discontinues the application of the second rotary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12491</b>. The robotic controller <b>11001</b> may also provide the surgeon with an indication that the anvil <b>12334</b> has been fully closed. The surgeon may then initiate the firing procedure. In alternative embodiments, the firing procedure may be automatically initiated by the robotic controller <b>11001</b>. The robotic controller <b>11001</b> then applies the primary rotary control motion <b>12483</b> to the shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> which results in the axial movement of the closure clutch <b>12410</b> into meshing engagement with the face plate portion <b>12424</b> of the knife drive shaft assembly <b>12420</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 120</figref>. Once the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> has confirmed that the closure clutch <b>12410</b> is meshing engagement with the face plate portion <b>12424</b> (by means of sensor(s)) in the end effector <b>12312</b> that are in communication with the robotic controller <b>11001</b>), the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may then apply the second rotary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12492</b> which, as was described above, ultimately results in the axial movement of the cutting instrument <b>12332</b> and sled portion <b>12333</b> in the distal direction “DD” through the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b>. As the cutting instrument <b>12332</b> moves distally through the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b>, the tissue clamped therein is severed. As the sled portion <b>12333</b> is driven distally, it causes the staples within the surgical staple cartridge to be driven through the severed tissue into forming contact with the anvil <b>12324</b>. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> has determined that the cutting instrument <b>12324</b> has reached the end position within the surgical staple cartridge <b>12334</b> (by means of sensor(s)) in the end effector <b>12312</b> that are in communication with the robotic controller <b>11001</b>), the robotic controller <b>11001</b> discontinues the application of the second rotary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12491</b>. Thereafter, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> applies the secondary rotary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12491</b> which ultimately results in the axial travel of the cutting instrument <b>12332</b> and sled portion <b>12333</b> in the proximal direction “PD” to the starting position. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> has determined that the cutting instrument <b>12324</b> has reached the staring position by means of sensor(s) in the surgical end effector <b>12312</b> that are in communication with the robotic controller <b>11001</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> discontinues the application of the secondary rotary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12491</b>. Thereafter, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> applies the primary rotary output motion to the shifter drive gear <b>12483</b> to cause the closure clutch <b>12410</b> to move into engagement with the rotary drive nut <b>12382</b>. Once the closure clutch <b>12410</b> has been moved into meshing engagement with the rotary drive nut <b>12382</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> then applies the secondary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12491</b> which ultimately results in the rotation of the rotary drive nut <b>12382</b> in the second direction to cause the closure tube <b>12370</b> to move in the proximal direction “PD”. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 118-120</figref>, the closure tube <b>12370</b> has an opening <b>12345</b> therein that engages the tab <b>12327</b> on the anvil <b>12324</b> to cause the anvil <b>12324</b> to pivot to the open position. In alternative embodiments, a spring may also be employed to pivot the anvil <b>12324</b> to the open position when the closure tube <b>12370</b> has been returned to the starting position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 118</figref>).

0333<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 122-126</figref> illustrate yet another surgical tool <b>12500</b> that may be effectively employed in connection with the robotic system <b>11000</b>. In various forms, the surgical tool <b>12500</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>12512</b> that includes a “first portion” in the form of an elongated channel <b>12522</b> and a “second movable portion” in the form of a pivotally translatable clamping member, such as an anvil <b>12524</b>, which are maintained at a spacing that assures effective stapling and severing of tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>12512</b>. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the surgical end effector <b>12512</b> may include, in addition to the previously-mentioned elongated channel <b>12522</b> and anvil <b>12524</b>, a “third movable portion” in the form of a cutting instrument <b>12532</b>, a sled (not shown), and a surgical staple cartridge <b>12534</b> that is removably seated in the elongated channel <b>12522</b>. The cutting instrument <b>12532</b> may be, for example, a knife. The anvil <b>12524</b> may be pivotably opened and closed at a pivot point <b>12525</b> connected to the proximate end of the elongated channel <b>12522</b>. The anvil <b>12524</b> may also include a tab <b>12527</b> at its proximate end that is configured to operably interface with a component of the mechanical closure system (described further below) to open and close the anvil <b>12524</b>. When actuated, the knife <b>12532</b> and sled travel longitudinally along the elongated channel <b>12522</b>, thereby cutting tissue clamped within the surgical end effector <b>12512</b>. The movement of the sled along the elongated channel <b>12522</b> causes the staples of the surgical staple cartridge <b>12534</b> to be driven through the severed tissue and against the closed anvil <b>12524</b>, which turns the staples to fasten the severed tissue. In one form, the elongated channel <b>12522</b> and the anvil <b>12524</b> may be made of an electrically conductive material (such as metal) so that they may serve as part of the antenna that communicates with sensor(s) in the surgical end effector, as described above. The surgical staple cartridge <b>12534</b> could be made of a nonconductive material (such as plastic) and the sensor may be connected to or disposed in the surgical staple cartridge <b>12534</b>, as described above.

0334It should be noted that although the embodiments of the surgical tool <b>12500</b> described herein employ a surgical end effector <b>12512</b> that staples the severed tissue, in other embodiments different techniques for fastening or sealing the severed tissue may be used. For example, end effectors that use RF energy or adhesives to fasten the severed tissue may also be used. U.S. Pat. No. 5,709,680, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,688,270, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE WITH RECESSED AND/OR OFFSET ELECTRODES, which are incorporated herein by reference, discloses cutting instruments that use RF energy to fasten the severed tissue. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/267,811, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,673,783 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/267,383, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,607,557, which are also incorporated herein by reference, disclose cutting instruments that use adhesives to fasten the severed tissue. Accordingly, although the description herein refers to cutting/stapling operations and the like, it should be recognized that this is an exemplary embodiment and is not meant to be limiting. Other tissue-fastening techniques may also be used.

0335In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated channel <b>12522</b> of the surgical end effector <b>12512</b> is coupled to an elongated shaft assembly <b>12508</b> that is coupled to a tool mounting portion <b>12600</b>. In at least one embodiment, the elongated shaft assembly <b>12508</b> comprises a hollow spine tube <b>12540</b> that is non-movably coupled to a tool mounting plate <b>12602</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>12600</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 123 and 124</figref>, the proximal end <b>12523</b> of the elongated channel <b>12522</b> comprises a hollow tubular structure configured to be attached to the distal end <b>12541</b> of the spine tube <b>12540</b>. In one embodiment, for example, the proximal end <b>12523</b> of the elongated channel <b>12522</b> is welded or glued to the distal end of the spine tube <b>12540</b>.

0336As can be further seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 123 and 124</figref>, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, the surgical tool <b>12500</b> further includes an axially movable actuation member in the form of a closure tube <b>12550</b> that is constrained to move axially relative to the elongated channel <b>12522</b> and the spine tube <b>12540</b>. The closure tube <b>12550</b> has a proximal end <b>12552</b> that has an internal thread <b>12554</b> formed therein that is in threaded engagement with a rotatably movable portion in the form of a closure drive nut <b>12560</b>. More specifically, the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> has a proximal end portion <b>12562</b> that is rotatably supported relative to the elongated channel <b>12522</b> and the spine tube <b>12540</b>. For assembly purposes, the proximal end portion <b>12562</b> is threadably attached to a retention ring <b>12570</b>. The retention ring <b>12570</b> is received in a groove <b>12529</b> formed between a shoulder <b>12527</b> on the proximal end <b>12523</b> of the elongated channel <b>12522</b> and the distal end <b>12541</b> of the spine tube <b>12540</b>. Such arrangement serves to rotatably support the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> within the elongated channel <b>12522</b>. Rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> will cause the closure tube <b>12550</b> to move axially as represented by arrow “D” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 123</figref>.

0337Extending through the spine tube <b>12540</b> and the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> is a drive member which, in at least one embodiment, comprises a knife bar <b>12580</b> that has a distal end portion <b>12582</b> that is rotatably coupled to the cutting instrument <b>12532</b> such that the knife bar <b>12580</b> may rotate relative to the cutting instrument <b>12582</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 123-125</figref>, the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> has a slot <b>12564</b> therein through which the knife bar <b>12580</b> can slidably extend. Such arrangement permits the knife bar <b>12580</b> to move axially relative to the closure drive nut <b>12560</b>. However, rotation of the knife bar <b>12580</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT will also result in the rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12560</b>. The axial direction in which the closure tube <b>12550</b> moves ultimately depends upon the direction in which the knife bar <b>12580</b> and the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> are rotated. As the closure tube <b>12550</b> is driven distally, the distal end thereof will contact the anvil <b>12524</b> and cause the anvil <b>12524</b> to pivot to a closed position. Upon application of an opening rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the closure tube <b>12550</b> will be driven in the proximal direction “PD” and pivot the anvil <b>12524</b> to the open position by virtue of the engagement of the tab <b>12527</b> with the opening <b>12555</b> in the closure tube <b>12550</b>.

0338In use, it may be desirable to rotate the surgical end effector <b>12512</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. In at least one embodiment, the tool mounting portion <b>12600</b> is configured to receive a corresponding first rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> and convert that first rotary output motion to a rotary control motion for rotating the elongated shaft assembly <b>12508</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 121</figref>, a proximal end <b>12542</b> of the hollow spine tube <b>12540</b> is rotatably supported within a cradle arrangement <b>12603</b> attached to a tool mounting plate <b>12602</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>12600</b>. Various embodiments of the surgical tool <b>12500</b> further include a transmission arrangement, generally depicted as <b>12605</b>, that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b>. In various forms the transmission arrangement <b>12605</b> include a rotation gear <b>12544</b> that is formed on or attached to the proximal end <b>12542</b> of the spine tube <b>12540</b> for meshing engagement with a rotation drive assembly <b>12610</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b>. In at least one embodiment, a rotation drive gear <b>12612</b> is coupled to a corresponding first one of the rotational bodies, driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>12600</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 126</figref>. The rotation drive assembly <b>12610</b> further comprises a rotary driven gear <b>12614</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b> in meshing engagement with the rotation gear <b>12544</b> and the rotation drive gear <b>12612</b>. Application of a first rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> to the corresponding driven rotational body <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>12612</b> by virtue of being operably coupled thereto. Rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>12612</b> ultimately results in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>12508</b> (and the end effector <b>12512</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT.

0339Closure of the anvil <b>12524</b> relative to the surgical staple cartridge <b>12534</b> is accomplished by axially moving the closure tube <b>12550</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Axial movement of the closure tube <b>12550</b> in the distal direction “DD” is accomplished by applying a rotary control motion to the closure drive nut <b>12382</b>. In various embodiments, the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> is rotated by applying a rotary output motion to the knife bar <b>12580</b>. Rotation of the knife bar <b>12580</b> is controlled by applying rotary output motions to a rotary closure system <b>12620</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 126</figref>. In at least one embodiment, the rotary closure system <b>12620</b> includes a closure drive gear <b>12622</b> that is coupled to a corresponding second one of the driven rotatable body portions discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>12600</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 126</figref>. The closure drive gear <b>12622</b>, in at least one embodiment, is in meshing driving engagement with a closure gear train, generally depicted as <b>12623</b>. The closure gear drive rain <b>12623</b> comprises a first driven closure gear <b>12624</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b>. The first closure driven gear <b>12624</b> is attached to a second closure driven gear <b>12626</b> by a drive shaft <b>12628</b>. The second closure driven gear <b>12626</b> is in meshing engagement with a third closure driven gear <b>12630</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b>. Rotation of the closure drive gear <b>12622</b> in a second rotary direction will result in the rotation of the third closure driven gear <b>12630</b> in a second direction. Conversely, rotation of the closure drive gear <b>12483</b> in a secondary rotary direction (opposite to the second rotary direction) will cause the third closure driven gear <b>12630</b> to rotate in a secondary direction.

0340As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 126</figref>, a drive shaft assembly <b>12640</b> is coupled to a proximal end of the knife bar <b>12580</b>. In various embodiments, the drive shaft assembly <b>12640</b> includes a proximal portion <b>12642</b> that has a square cross-sectional shape. The proximal portion <b>12642</b> is configured to slideably engage a correspondingly shaped aperture in the third driven gear <b>12630</b>. Such arrangement results in the rotation of the drive shaft assembly <b>12640</b> (and knife bar <b>12580</b>) when the third driven gear <b>12630</b> is rotated. The drive shaft assembly <b>12640</b> is axially advanced in the distal and proximal directions by a knife drive assembly <b>12650</b>. One form of the knife drive assembly <b>12650</b> comprises a rotary drive gear <b>12652</b> that is coupled to a corresponding third one of the driven rotatable body portions, discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>12600</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 126</figref>. The rotary driven gear <b>12652</b> is in meshing driving engagement with a gear train, generally depicted as <b>12653</b>. In at least one form, the gear train <b>12653</b> further comprises a first rotary driven gear assembly <b>12654</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b>. The first rotary driven gear assembly <b>12654</b> is in meshing engagement with a third rotary driven gear assembly <b>12656</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b> and which is in meshing engagement with a fourth rotary driven gear assembly <b>12658</b> that is in meshing engagement with a threaded portion <b>12644</b> of the drive shaft assembly <b>12640</b>. Rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>12652</b> in a third rotary direction will result in the axial advancement of the drive shaft assembly <b>12640</b> and knife bar <b>12580</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Conversely, rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>12652</b> in a tertiary rotary direction (opposite to the third rotary direction) will cause the drive shaft assembly <b>12640</b> and the knife bar <b>12580</b> to move in the proximal direction.

0341A method of operating the surgical tool <b>12500</b> will now be described. Once the tool mounting portion <b>12600</b> has been operably coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the robotic system <b>11000</b> can orient the surgical end effector <b>12512</b> in position adjacent the target tissue to be cut and stapled. If the anvil <b>12524</b> is not already in the open position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 123</figref>), the robotic system <b>11000</b> may apply the second rotary output motion to the closure drive gear <b>12622</b> which results in the rotation of the knife bar <b>12580</b> in a second direction. Rotation of the knife bar <b>12580</b> in the second direction results in the rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> in a second direction. As the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> rotates in the second direction, the closure tube <b>12550</b> moves in the proximal direction “PD”. As the closure tube <b>12550</b> moves in the proximal direction “PD”, the tab <b>12527</b> on the anvil <b>12524</b> interfaces with the opening <b>12555</b> in the closure tube <b>12550</b> and causes the anvil <b>12524</b> to pivot to the open position. In addition or in alternative embodiments, a spring (not shown) may be employed to pivot the anvil <b>12354</b> to the open position when the closure tube <b>12550</b> has been returned to the starting position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 123</figref>). The opened surgical end effector <b>12512</b> may then be manipulated by the robotic system <b>11000</b> to position the target tissue between the open anvil <b>12524</b> and the surgical staple cartridge <b>12534</b>. Thereafter, the surgeon may initiate the closure process by activating the robotic control system <b>11000</b> to apply the second rotary output motion to the closure drive gear <b>12622</b> which, as was described above, ultimately results in the rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12382</b> in the second direction which results in the axial travel of the closure tube <b>12250</b> in the distal direction “DD”. As the closure tube <b>12550</b> moves in the distal direction, it contacts a portion of the anvil <b>12524</b> and causes the anvil <b>12524</b> to pivot to the closed position to clamp the target tissue between the anvil <b>12524</b> and the staple cartridge <b>12534</b>. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> determines that the anvil <b>12524</b> has been pivoted to the closed position by corresponding sensor(s) in the end effector <b>12512</b> that are in communication therewith, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> discontinues the application of the second rotary output motion to the closure drive gear <b>12622</b>. The robotic controller <b>11001</b> may also provide the surgeon with an indication that the anvil <b>12524</b> has been fully closed. The surgeon may then initiate the firing procedure. In alternative embodiments, the firing procedure may be automatically initiated by the robotic controller <b>11001</b>.

0342After the robotic controller <b>11001</b> has determined that the anvil <b>12524</b> is in the closed position, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> then applies the third rotary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12652</b> which results in the axial movement of the drive shaft assembly <b>12640</b> and knife bar <b>12580</b> in the distal direction “DD”. As the cutting instrument <b>12532</b> moves distally through the surgical staple cartridge <b>12534</b>, the tissue clamped therein is severed. As the sled portion (not shown) is driven distally, it causes the staples within the surgical staple cartridge <b>12534</b> to be driven through the severed tissue into forming contact with the anvil <b>12524</b>. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> has determined that the cutting instrument <b>12532</b> has reached the end position within the surgical staple cartridge <b>12534</b> by means of sensor(s) in the surgical end effector <b>12512</b> that are in communication with the robotic controller <b>11001</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> discontinues the application of the second rotary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12652</b>. Thereafter, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> applies the secondary rotary control motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12652</b> which ultimately results in the axial travel of the cutting instrument <b>12532</b> and sled portion in the proximal direction “PD” to the starting position. Once the robotic controller <b>1001</b> has determined that the cutting instrument <b>12524</b> has reached the staring position by means of sensor(s) in the end effector <b>12512</b> that are in communication with the robotic controller <b>11001</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> discontinues the application of the secondary rotary output motion to the rotary drive gear <b>12652</b>. Thereafter, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may apply the secondary rotary output motion to the closure drive gear <b>12622</b> which results in the rotation of the knife bar <b>12580</b> in a secondary direction. Rotation of the knife bar <b>12580</b> in the secondary direction results in the rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> in a secondary direction. As the closure drive nut <b>12560</b> rotates in the secondary direction, the closure tube <b>12550</b> moves in the proximal direction “PD” to the open position.

0343<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 127-132B</figref> illustrate yet another surgical tool <b>12700</b> that may be effectively employed in connection with the robotic system <b>11000</b>. In various forms, the surgical tool <b>12700</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>12712</b> that includes a “first portion” in the form of an elongated channel <b>12722</b> and a “second movable portion” in on form comprising a pivotally translatable clamping member, such as an anvil <b>12724</b>, which are maintained at a spacing that assures effective stapling and severing of tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>12712</b>. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the surgical end effector <b>12712</b> may include, in addition to the previously-mentioned channel <b>12722</b> and anvil <b>12724</b>, a “third movable portion” in the form of a cutting instrument <b>12732</b>, a sled (not shown), and a surgical staple cartridge <b>12734</b> that is removably seated in the elongated channel <b>12722</b>. The cutting instrument <b>12732</b> may be, for example, a knife. The anvil <b>12724</b> may be pivotably opened and closed at a pivot point <b>12725</b> connected to the proximal end of the elongated channel <b>12722</b>. The anvil <b>12724</b> may also include a tab <b>12727</b> at its proximal end that interfaces with a component of the mechanical closure system (described further below) to open and close the anvil <b>12724</b>. When actuated, the knife <b>12732</b> and sled to travel longitudinally along the elongated channel <b>12722</b>, thereby cutting tissue clamped within the surgical end effector <b>12712</b>. The movement of the sled along the elongated channel <b>12722</b> causes the staples of the surgical staple cartridge <b>12734</b> to be driven through the severed tissue and against the closed anvil <b>12724</b>, which turns the staples to fasten the severed tissue. In one form, the elongated channel <b>12722</b> and the anvil <b>12724</b> may be made of an electrically conductive material (such as metal) so that they may serve as part of the antenna that communicates with sensor(s) in the surgical end effector, as described above. The surgical staple cartridge <b>12734</b> could be made of a nonconductive material (such as plastic) and the sensor may be connected to or disposed in the surgical staple cartridge <b>12734</b>, as described above.

0344It should be noted that although the embodiments of the surgical tool <b>12500</b> described herein employ a surgical end effector <b>12712</b> that staples the severed tissue, in other embodiments different techniques for fastening or sealing the severed tissue may be used. For example, end effectors that use RF energy or adhesives to fasten the severed tissue may also be used. U.S. Pat. No. 5,709,680, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,688,270, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE WITH RECESSED AND/OR OFFSET ELECTRODES, which are incorporated herein by reference, discloses cutting instruments that use RF energy to fasten the severed tissue. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/267,811, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,673,783 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/267,383, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,607,557, which are also incorporated herein by reference, disclose cutting instruments that use adhesives to fasten the severed tissue. Accordingly, although the description herein refers to cutting/stapling operations and the like, it should be recognized that this is an exemplary embodiment and is not meant to be limiting. Other tissue-fastening techniques may also be used.

0345In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated channel <b>12722</b> of the surgical end effector <b>12712</b> is coupled to an elongated shaft assembly <b>12708</b> that is coupled to a tool mounting portion <b>12900</b>. Although not shown, the elongated shaft assembly <b>12708</b> may include an articulation joint to permit the surgical end effector <b>12712</b> to be selectively articulated about an axis that is substantially transverse to the tool axis LT-LT. In at least one embodiment, the elongated shaft assembly <b>12708</b> comprises a hollow spine tube <b>12740</b> that is non-movably coupled to a tool mounting plate <b>12902</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>12900</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 128 and 129</figref>, the proximal end <b>12723</b> of the elongated channel <b>12722</b> comprises a hollow tubular structure that is attached to the spine tube <b>12740</b> by means of a mounting collar <b>12790</b>. A cross-sectional view of the mounting collar <b>12790</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 130</figref>. In various embodiments, the mounting collar <b>12790</b> has a proximal flanged end <b>12791</b> that is configured for attachment to the distal end of the spine tube <b>12740</b>. In at least one embodiment, for example, the proximal flanged end <b>12791</b> of the mounting collar <b>12790</b> is welded or glued to the distal end of the spine tube <b>12740</b>. As can be further seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 128 and 129</figref>, the mounting collar <b>12790</b> further has a mounting hub portion <b>12792</b> that is sized to receive the proximal end <b>12723</b> of the elongated channel <b>12722</b> thereon. The proximal end <b>12723</b> of the elongated channel <b>12722</b> is non-movably attached to the mounting hub portion <b>12792</b> by, for example, welding, adhesive, etc.

0346As can be further seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 128 and 129</figref>, the surgical tool <b>12700</b> further includes an axially movable actuation member in the form of a closure tube <b>12750</b> that is constrained to move axially relative to the elongated channel <b>12722</b>. The closure tube <b>12750</b> has a proximal end <b>12752</b> that has an internal thread <b>12754</b> formed therein that is in threaded engagement with a rotatably movable portion in the form of a closure drive nut <b>12760</b>. More specifically, the closure drive nut <b>12760</b> has a proximal end portion <b>12762</b> that is rotatably supported relative to the elongated channel <b>12722</b> and the spine tube <b>12740</b>. For assembly purposes, the proximal end portion <b>12762</b> is threadably attached to a retention ring <b>12770</b>. The retention ring <b>12770</b> is received in a groove <b>12729</b> formed between a shoulder <b>12727</b> on the proximal end <b>12723</b> of the channel <b>12722</b> and the mounting hub <b>12729</b> of the mounting collar <b>12790</b>. Such arrangement serves to rotatably support the closure drive nut <b>12760</b> within the channel <b>12722</b>. Rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12760</b> will cause the closure tube <b>12750</b> to move axially as represented by arrow “D” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 128</figref>.

0347Extending through the spine tube <b>12740</b>, the mounting collar <b>12790</b>, and the closure drive nut <b>12760</b> is a drive member, which in at least one embodiment, comprises a knife bar <b>12780</b> that has a distal end portion <b>12782</b> that is coupled to the cutting instrument <b>12732</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 128 and 129</figref>, the mounting collar <b>12790</b> has a passage <b>12793</b> therethrough for permitting the knife bar <b>12780</b> to slidably pass therethrough. Similarly, the closure drive nut <b>12760</b> has a slot <b>12764</b> therein through which the knife bar <b>12780</b> can slidably extend. Such arrangement permits the knife bar <b>12780</b> to move axially relative to the closure drive nut <b>12760</b>.

0348Actuation of the anvil <b>12724</b> is controlled by a rotary driven closure shaft <b>12800</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 128 and 129</figref>, a distal end portion <b>12802</b> of the closure drive shaft <b>12800</b> extends through a passage <b>12794</b> in the mounting collar <b>12790</b> and a closure gear <b>12804</b> is attached thereto. The closure gear <b>12804</b> is configured for driving engagement with the inner surface <b>12761</b> of the closure drive nut <b>12760</b>. Thus, rotation of the closure shaft <b>12800</b> will also result in the rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12760</b>. The axial direction in which the closure tube <b>12750</b> moves ultimately depends upon the direction in which the closure shaft <b>12800</b> and the closure drive nut <b>12760</b> are rotated. For example, in response to one rotary closure motion received from the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the closure tube <b>12750</b> will be driven in the distal direction “DD”. As the closure tube <b>12750</b> is driven distally, the opening <b>12745</b> will engage the tab <b>12727</b> on the anvil <b>12724</b> and cause the anvil <b>12724</b> to pivot to a closed position. Upon application of an opening rotary motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the closure tube <b>12750</b> will be driven in the proximal direction “PD” and pivot the anvil <b>12724</b> to the open position. In various embodiments, a spring (not shown) may be employed to bias the anvil <b>12724</b> to the open position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 128</figref>).

0349In use, it may be desirable to rotate the surgical end effector <b>12712</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. In at least one embodiment, the tool mounting portion <b>12900</b> is configured to receive a corresponding first rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> for rotating the elongated shaft assembly <b>12708</b> about the tool axis LT-LT. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 132</figref>, a proximal end <b>12742</b> of the hollow spine tube <b>12740</b> is rotatably supported within a cradle arrangement <b>12903</b> and a bearing assembly <b>12904</b> that are attached to a tool mounting plate <b>12902</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>12900</b>. A rotation gear <b>12744</b> is formed on or attached to the proximal end <b>12742</b> of the spine tube <b>12740</b> for meshing engagement with a rotation drive assembly <b>12910</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12902</b>. In at least one embodiment, a rotation drive gear <b>12912</b> is coupled to a corresponding first one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>12602</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>12600</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 132</figref>. The rotation drive assembly <b>12910</b> further comprises a rotary driven gear <b>12914</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12902</b> in meshing engagement with the rotation gear <b>12744</b> and the rotation drive gear <b>12912</b>. Application of a first rotary control motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool holder <b>11270</b> and the adapter <b>11240</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>12912</b> by virtue of being operably coupled thereto. Rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>12912</b> ultimately results in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>12708</b> (and the end effector <b>2712</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT (primary rotary motion).

0350Closure of the anvil <b>12724</b> relative to the staple cartridge <b>12734</b> is accomplished by axially moving the closure tube <b>12750</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Axial movement of the closure tube <b>12750</b> in the distal direction “DD” is accomplished by applying a rotary control motion to the closure drive nut <b>12760</b>. In various embodiments, the closure drive nut <b>12760</b> is rotated by applying a rotary output motion to the closure drive shaft <b>12800</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 132</figref>, a proximal end portion <b>12806</b> of the closure drive shaft <b>12800</b> has a driven gear <b>12808</b> thereon that is in meshing engagement with a closure drive assembly <b>12920</b>. In various embodiments, the closure drive system <b>12920</b> includes a closure drive gear <b>12922</b> that is coupled to a corresponding second one of the driven rotational bodies or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>12462</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>12900</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 132</figref>. The closure drive gear <b>12922</b> is supported in meshing engagement with a closure gear train, generally depicted as <b>12923</b>. In at least one form, the closure gear rain <b>12923</b> comprises a first driven closure gear <b>12924</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12902</b>. The first closure driven gear <b>12924</b> is attached to a second closure driven gear <b>12926</b> by a drive shaft <b>12928</b>. The second closure driven gear <b>12926</b> is in meshing engagement with a planetary gear assembly <b>12930</b>. In various embodiments, the planetary gear assembly <b>12930</b> includes a driven planetary closure gear <b>12932</b> that is rotatably supported within the bearing assembly <b>12904</b> that is mounted on tool mounting plate <b>12902</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 132 and 132B</figref>, the proximal end portion <b>12806</b> of the closure drive shaft <b>12800</b> is rotatably supported within the proximal end portion <b>12742</b> of the spine tube <b>12740</b> such that the driven gear <b>12808</b> is in meshing engagement with central gear teeth <b>12934</b> formed on the planetary gear <b>12932</b>. As can also be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 132A</figref>, two additional support gears <b>12936</b> are attached to or rotatably supported relative to the proximal end portion <b>12742</b> of the spine tube <b>12740</b> to provide bearing support thereto. Such arrangement with the planetary gear assembly <b>12930</b> serves to accommodate rotation of the spine shaft <b>12740</b> by the rotation drive assembly <b>12910</b> while permitting the closure driven gear <b>12808</b> to remain in meshing engagement with the closure drive system <b>12920</b>. In addition, rotation of the closure drive gear <b>12922</b> in a first direction will ultimately result in the rotation of the closure drive shaft <b>12800</b> and closure drive nut <b>12760</b> which will ultimately result in the closure of the anvil <b>12724</b> as described above. Conversely, rotation of the closure drive gear <b>12922</b> in a second opposite direction will ultimately result in the rotation of the closure drive nut <b>12760</b> in an opposite direction which results in the opening of the anvil <b>12724</b>.

0351As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 126</figref>, the proximal end <b>12784</b> of the knife bar <b>12780</b> has a threaded shaft portion <b>12786</b> attached thereto which is in driving engagement with a knife drive assembly <b>12940</b>. In various embodiments, the threaded shaft portion <b>12786</b> is rotatably supported by a bearing <b>12906</b> attached to the tool mounting plate <b>12902</b>. Such arrangement permits the threaded shaft portion <b>12786</b> to rotate and move axially relative to the tool mounting plate <b>12902</b>. The knife bar <b>12780</b> is axially advanced in the distal and proximal directions by the knife drive assembly <b>12940</b>. One form of the knife drive assembly <b>12940</b> comprises a rotary drive gear <b>12942</b> that is coupled to a corresponding third one of the rotatable bodies, driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>12902</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>12900</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 132</figref>. The rotary drive gear <b>12942</b> is in meshing engagement with a knife gear train, generally depicted as <b>12943</b>. In various embodiments, the knife gear train <b>12943</b> comprises a first rotary driven gear assembly <b>12944</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12902</b>. The first rotary driven gear assembly <b>12944</b> is in meshing engagement with a third rotary driven gear assembly <b>12946</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>12902</b> and which is in meshing engagement with a fourth rotary driven gear assembly <b>12948</b> that is in meshing engagement with the threaded portion <b>12786</b> of the knife bar <b>12780</b>. Rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>12942</b> in one direction will result in the axial advancement of the knife bar <b>12780</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Conversely, rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>12942</b> in an opposite direction will cause the knife bar <b>12780</b> to move in the proximal direction. Tool <b>12700</b> may otherwise be used as described above.

0352<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 133 and 134</figref> illustrate a surgical tool embodiment <b>12700</b>′ that is substantially identical to tool <b>12700</b> that was described in detail above. However tool <b>12700</b>′ includes a pressure sensor <b>12950</b> that is configured to provide feedback to the robotic controller <b>11001</b> concerning the amount of clamping pressure experienced by the anvil <b>12724</b>. In various embodiments, for example, the pressure sensor may comprise a spring biased contact switch. For a continuous signal, it would use either a cantilever beam with a strain gage on it or a dome button top with a strain gage on the inside. Another version may comprise an off switch that contacts only at a known desired load. Such arrangement would include a dome on the based wherein the dome is one electrical pole and the base is the other electrical pole. Such arrangement permits the robotic controller <b>11001</b> to adjust the amount of clamping pressure being applied to the tissue within the surgical end effector <b>12712</b> by adjusting the amount of closing pressure applied to the anvil <b>12724</b>. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that such pressure sensor arrangement may be effectively employed with several of the surgical tool embodiments described herein as well as their equivalent structures.

0353<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 135</figref> illustrates a portion of another surgical tool <b>13000</b> that may be effectively used in connection with a robotic system <b>11000</b>. The surgical tool <b>13003</b> employs on-board motor(s) for powering various components of a surgical end effector cutting instrument. In at least one non-limiting embodiment for example, the surgical tool <b>13000</b> includes a surgical end effector in the form of an endocutter (not shown) that has an anvil (not shown) and surgical staple cartridge arrangement (not shown) of the types and constructions described above. The surgical tool <b>13000</b> also includes an elongated shaft (not shown) and anvil closure arrangement (not shown) of the types described above. Thus, this portion of the Detailed Description will not repeat the description of those components beyond that which is necessary to appreciate the unique and novel attributes of the various embodiments of surgical tool <b>13000</b>.

0354In the depicted embodiment, the end effector includes a cutting instrument <b>13002</b> that is coupled to a knife bar <b>13003</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 135</figref>, the surgical tool <b>13000</b> includes a tool mounting portion <b>13010</b> that includes a tool mounting plate <b>13012</b> that is configured to mountingly interface with the adaptor portion <b>11240</b>′ which is coupled to the robotic system <b>11000</b> in the various manners described above. The tool mounting portion <b>13010</b> is configured to operably support a transmission arrangement <b>13013</b> thereon. In at least one embodiment, the adaptor portion <b>11240</b>′ may be identical to the adaptor portion <b>11240</b> described in detail above without the powered rotation bodies and disc members employed by adapter <b>11240</b>. In other embodiments, the adaptor portion <b>11240</b>′ may be identical to adaptor portion <b>11240</b>. Still other modifications which are considered to be within the spirit and scope of the various forms of the present invention may employ one or more of the mechanical motions (i.e., rotary motion(s)) from the tool holder portion <b>11270</b> (as described hereinabove) to power/actuate the transmission arrangement <b>13013</b> while also employing one or more motors within the tool mounting portion <b>13010</b> to power one or more other components of the surgical end effector. In addition, while the end effector of the depicted embodiment comprises an endocutter, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the unique and novel attributes of the depicted embodiment may be effectively employed in connection with other types of surgical end effectors without departing from the spirit and scope of various forms of the present invention.

0355In various embodiments, the tool mounting plate <b>13012</b> is configured to at least house a first firing motor <b>13011</b> for supplying firing and retraction motions to the knife bar <b>13003</b> which is coupled to or otherwise operably interfaces with the cutting instrument <b>13002</b>. The tool mounting plate <b>13012</b> has an array of electrical connecting pins <b>13014</b> which are configured to interface with the slots <b>11258</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 104</figref>) in the adapter <b>11240</b>′. Such arrangement permits the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> to provide control signals to the electronic control circuit <b>13020</b> of the surgical tool <b>13000</b>. While the interface is described herein with reference to mechanical, electrical, and magnetic coupling elements, it should be understood that a wide variety of telemetry modalities might be used, including infrared, inductive coupling, or the like.

0356Control circuit <b>13020</b> is shown in schematic form in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 135</figref>. In one form or embodiment, the control circuit <b>13020</b> includes a power supply in the form of a battery <b>13022</b> that is coupled to an on-off solenoid powered switch <b>13024</b>. Control circuit <b>13020</b> further includes an on/off firing solenoid <b>13026</b> that is coupled to a double pole switch <b>13028</b> for controlling the rotational direction of the motor <b>13011</b>. Thus, when the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> supplies an appropriate control signal, switch <b>13024</b> will permit battery <b>13022</b> to supply power to the double pole switch <b>13028</b>. The controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> will also supply an appropriate signal to the double pole switch <b>13028</b> to supply power to the motor <b>13011</b>. When it is desired to fire the surgical end effector (i.e., drive the cutting instrument <b>13002</b> distally through tissue clamped in the surgical end effector, the double pole switch <b>13028</b> will be in a first position. When it is desired to retract the cutting instrument <b>13002</b> to the starting position, the double pole switch <b>13028</b> will be moved to the second position by the controller <b>11001</b>.

0357Various embodiments of the surgical tool <b>13000</b> also employ a gear box <b>13030</b> that is sized, in cooperation with a firing gear train <b>13031</b> that, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, comprises a firing drive gear <b>13032</b> that is in meshing engagement with a firing driven gear <b>13034</b> for generating a desired amount of driving force necessary to drive the cutting instrument <b>13002</b> through tissue and to drive and form staples in the various manners described herein. In the embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 135</figref>, the driven gear <b>13034</b> is coupled to a screw shaft <b>13036</b> that is in threaded engagement with a screw nut arrangement <b>13038</b> that is constrained to move axially (represented by arrow “D”). The screw nut arrangement <b>13038</b> is attached to the firing bar <b>13003</b>. Thus, by rotating the screw shaft <b>13036</b> in a first direction, the cutting instrument <b>13002</b> is driven in the distal direction “DD” and rotating the screw shaft in an opposite second direction, the cutting instrument <b>13002</b> may be retracted in the proximal direction “PD”.

0358<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 136</figref> illustrates a portion of another surgical tool <b>13000</b>′ that is substantially identical to tool <b>13000</b> described above, except that the driven gear <b>13034</b> is attached to a drive shaft <b>13040</b>. The drive shaft <b>13040</b> is attached to a second driver gear <b>13042</b> that is in meshing engagement with a third driven gear <b>13044</b> that is in meshing engagement with a screw <b>13046</b> coupled to the firing bar <b>13003</b>.

0359<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 137</figref> illustrates another surgical tool <b>13200</b> that may be effectively used in connection with a robotic system <b>11000</b>. In this embodiment, the surgical tool <b>13200</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>13212</b> that in one non-limiting form, comprises a component portion that is selectively movable between first and second positions relative to at least one other end effector component portion. As will be discussed in further detail below, the surgical tool <b>13200</b> employs on-board motors for powering various components of a transmission arrangement <b>13305</b>. The surgical end effector <b>13212</b> includes an elongated channel <b>13222</b> that operably supports a surgical staple cartridge <b>13234</b>. The elongated channel <b>13222</b> has a proximal end <b>13223</b> that slidably extends into a hollow elongated shaft assembly <b>13208</b> that is coupled to a tool mounting portion <b>13300</b>. In addition, the surgical end effector <b>13212</b> includes an anvil <b>13224</b> that is pivotally coupled to the elongated channel <b>13222</b> by a pair of trunnions <b>13225</b> that are received within corresponding openings <b>13229</b> in the elongated channel <b>13222</b>. A distal end portion <b>13209</b> of the shaft assembly <b>13208</b> includes an opening <b>13245</b> into which a tab <b>13227</b> on the anvil <b>13224</b> is inserted in order to open the anvil <b>13224</b> as the elongated channel <b>13222</b> is moved axially in the proximal direction “PD” relative to the distal end portion <b>13209</b> of the shaft assembly <b>13208</b>. In various embodiments, a spring (not shown) may be employed to bias the anvil <b>13224</b> to the open position.

0360As indicated above, the surgical tool <b>13200</b> includes a tool mounting portion <b>13300</b> that includes a tool mounting plate <b>13302</b> that is configured to operably support the transmission arrangement <b>13305</b> and to mountingly interface with the adaptor portion <b>11240</b>′ which is coupled to the robotic system <b>11000</b> in the various manners described above. In at least one embodiment, the adaptor portion <b>11240</b>′ may be identical to the adaptor portion <b>11240</b> described in detail above without the powered disc members employed by adapter <b>11240</b>. In other embodiments, the adaptor portion <b>11240</b>′ may be identical to adaptor portion <b>11240</b>. However, in such embodiments, because the various components of the surgical end effector <b>13212</b> are all powered by motor(s) in the tool mounting portion <b>13300</b>, the surgical tool <b>13200</b> will not employ or require any of the mechanical (i.e., non-electrical) actuation motions from the tool holder portion <b>11270</b> to power the surgical end effector <b>13200</b> components. Still other modifications which are considered to be within the spirit and scope of the various forms of the present invention may employ one or more of the mechanical motions from the tool holder portion <b>11270</b> (as described hereinabove) to power/actuate one or more of the surgical end effector components while also employing one or more motors within the tool mounting portion to power one or more other components of the surgical end effector.

0361In various embodiments, the tool mounting plate <b>13302</b> is configured to support a first firing motor <b>13310</b> for supplying firing and retraction motions to the transmission arrangement <b>13305</b> to drive a knife bar <b>13335</b> that is coupled to a cutting instrument <b>13332</b> of the type described above. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 137</figref>, the tool mounting plate <b>13212</b> has an array of electrical connecting pins <b>13014</b> which are configured to interface with the slots <b>11258</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 104</figref>) in the adapter <b>11240</b>′. Such arrangement permits the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> to provide control signals to the electronic control circuits <b>13320</b>, <b>13340</b> of the surgical tool <b>13200</b>. While the interface is described herein with reference to mechanical, electrical, and magnetic coupling elements, it should be understood that a wide variety of telemetry modalities might be used, including infrared, inductive coupling, or the like.

0362In one form or embodiment, the first control circuit <b>13320</b> includes a first power supply in the form of a first battery <b>13322</b> that is coupled to a first on-off solenoid powered switch <b>13324</b>. The first firing control circuit <b>13320</b> further includes a first on/off firing solenoid <b>13326</b> that is coupled to a first double pole switch <b>13328</b> for controlling the rotational direction of the first firing motor <b>13310</b>. Thus, when the robotic controller <b>11001</b> supplies an appropriate control signal, the first switch <b>13324</b> will permit the first battery <b>13322</b> to supply power to the first double pole switch <b>13328</b>. The robotic controller <b>11001</b> will also supply an appropriate signal to the first double pole switch <b>13328</b> to supply power to the first firing motor <b>13310</b>. When it is desired to fire the surgical end effector (i.e., drive the cutting instrument <b>13232</b> distally through tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>13212</b>, the first switch <b>13328</b> will be positioned in a first position by the robotic controller <b>11001</b>. When it is desired to retract the cutting instrument <b>13232</b> to the starting position, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> will send the appropriate control signal to move the first switch <b>13328</b> to the second position.

0363Various embodiments of the surgical tool <b>13200</b> also employ a first gear box <b>13330</b> that is sized, in cooperation with a firing drive gear <b>13332</b> coupled thereto that operably interfaces with a firing gear train <b>13333</b>. In at least one non-limiting embodiment, the firing gear train <b>13333</b> comprises a firing driven gear <b>13334</b> that is in meshing engagement with drive gear <b>13332</b>, for generating a desired amount of driving force necessary to drive the cutting instrument <b>13232</b> through tissue and to drive and form staples in the various manners described herein. In the embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 137</figref>, the driven gear <b>13334</b> is coupled to a drive shaft <b>13335</b> that has a second driven gear <b>13336</b> coupled thereto. The second driven gear <b>13336</b> is supported in meshing engagement with a third driven gear <b>13337</b> that is in meshing engagement with a fourth driven gear <b>13338</b>. The fourth driven gear <b>13338</b> is in meshing engagement with a threaded proximal portion <b>13339</b> of the knife bar <b>13235</b> that is constrained to move axially. Thus, by rotating the drive shaft <b>13335</b> in a first direction, the cutting instrument <b>13232</b> is driven in the distal direction “DD” and rotating the drive shaft <b>13335</b> in an opposite second direction, the cutting instrument <b>13232</b> may be retracted in the proximal direction “PD”.

0364As indicated above, the opening and closing of the anvil <b>13224</b> is controlled by axially moving the elongated channel <b>13222</b> relative to the elongated shaft assembly <b>13208</b>. The axial movement of the elongated channel <b>13222</b> is controlled by a closure control system <b>13339</b>. In various embodiments, the closure control system <b>13339</b> includes a closure shaft <b>13340</b> which has a hollow threaded end portion <b>13341</b> that threadably engages a threaded closure rod <b>13342</b>. The threaded end portion <b>13341</b> is rotatably supported in a spine shaft <b>13343</b> that operably interfaces with the tool mounting portion <b>13300</b> and extends through a portion of the shaft assembly <b>13208</b> as shown. The closure system <b>13339</b> further comprises a closure control circuit <b>13350</b> that includes a second power supply in the form of a second battery <b>13352</b> that is coupled to a second on-off solenoid powered switch <b>13354</b>. Closure control circuit <b>13350</b> further includes a second on/off firing solenoid <b>13356</b> that is coupled to a second double pole switch <b>13358</b> for controlling the rotation of a second closure motor <b>13360</b>. Thus, when the robotic controller <b>11001</b> supplies an appropriate control signal, the second switch <b>13354</b> will permit the second battery <b>13352</b> to supply power to the second double pole switch <b>13354</b>. The robotic controller <b>11001</b> will also supply an appropriate signal to the second double pole switch <b>13358</b> to supply power to the second motor <b>13360</b>. When it is desired to close the anvil <b>13224</b>, the second switch <b>13348</b> will be in a first position. When it is desired to open the anvil <b>13224</b>, the second switch <b>13348</b> will be moved to a second position.

0365Various embodiments of tool mounting portion <b>13300</b> also employ a second gear box <b>13362</b> that is coupled to a closure drive gear <b>13364</b>. The closure drive gear <b>13364</b> is in meshing engagement with a closure gear train <b>13363</b>. In various non-limiting forms, the closure gear train <b>13363</b> includes a closure driven gear <b>13365</b> that is attached to a closure drive shaft <b>13366</b>. Also attached to the closure drive shaft <b>13366</b> is a closure drive gear <b>13367</b> that is in meshing engagement with a closure shaft gear <b>13360</b> attached to the closure shaft <b>13340</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 137</figref> depicts the end effector <b>13212</b> in the open position. As indicated above, when the threaded closure rod <b>13342</b> is in the position depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 137</figref>, a spring (not shown) biases the anvil <b>13224</b> to the open position. When it is desired to close the anvil <b>13224</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> will activate the second motor <b>13360</b> to rotate the closure shaft <b>13340</b> to draw the threaded closure rod <b>13342</b> and the channel <b>13222</b> in the proximal direction ‘PD’. As the anvil <b>13224</b> contacts the distal end portion <b>13209</b> of the shaft <b>13208</b>, the anvil <b>13224</b> is pivoted to the closed position.

0366A method of operating the surgical tool <b>13200</b> will now be described. Once the tool mounting portion <b>13302</b> has be operably coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the robotic system <b>11000</b> can orient the end effector <b>13212</b> in position adjacent the target tissue to be cut and stapled. If the anvil <b>13224</b> is not already in the open position, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may activate the second closure motor <b>13360</b> to drive the channel <b>13222</b> in the distal direction to the position depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 137</figref>. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> determines that the surgical end effector <b>13212</b> is in the open position by sensor(s) in the and effector and/or the tool mounting portion <b>13300</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may provide the surgeon with a signal to inform the surgeon that the anvil <b>13224</b> may then be closed. Once the target tissue is positioned between the open anvil <b>13224</b> and the surgical staple cartridge <b>13234</b>, the surgeon may then commence the closure process by activating the robotic controller <b>11001</b> to apply a closure control signal to the second closure motor <b>13360</b>. The second closure motor <b>13360</b> applies a rotary motion to the closure shaft <b>13340</b> to draw the channel <b>13222</b> in the proximal direction “PD” until the anvil <b>13224</b> has been pivoted to the closed position. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> determines that the anvil <b>13224</b> has been moved to the closed position by sensor(s) in the surgical end effector <b>13212</b> and/or in the tool mounting portion <b>13300</b> that are in communication with the robotic control system, the motor <b>13360</b> may be deactivated. Thereafter, the firing process may be commenced either manually by the surgeon activating a trigger, button, etc. on the controller <b>11001</b> or the controller <b>11001</b> may automatically commence the firing process.

0367To commence the firing process, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> activates the firing motor <b>13310</b> to drive the firing bar <b>13235</b> and the cutting instrument <b>13232</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Once robotic controller <b>11001</b> has determined that the cutting instrument <b>13232</b> has moved to the ending position within the surgical staple cartridge <b>13234</b> by means of sensors in the surgical end effector <b>13212</b> and/or the motor drive portion <b>13300</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may provide the surgeon with an indication signal. Thereafter the surgeon may manually activate the first motor <b>13310</b> to retract the cutting instrument <b>13232</b> to the starting position or the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may automatically activate the first motor <b>13310</b> to retract the cutting element <b>13232</b>.

0368The embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 137</figref> does not include an articulation joint. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 138 and 139</figref> illustrate surgical tools <b>13200</b>′ and <b>13200</b>″ that have end effectors <b>13212</b>′, <b>13212</b>″, respectively that may be employed with an elongated shaft embodiment that has an articulation joint of the various types disclosed herein. For example, as can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 138</figref>, a threaded closure shaft <b>13342</b> is coupled to the proximal end <b>13223</b> of the elongated channel <b>13222</b> by a flexible cable or other flexible member <b>13345</b>. The location of an articulation joint (not shown) within the elongated shaft assembly <b>13208</b> will coincide with the flexible member <b>13345</b> to enable the flexible member <b>13345</b> to accommodate such articulation. In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the flexible member <b>13345</b> is rotatably affixed to the proximal end portion <b>13223</b> of the elongated channel <b>13222</b> to enable the flexible member <b>13345</b> to rotate relative thereto to prevent the flexible member <b>13229</b> from “winding up” relative to the channel <b>13222</b>. Although not shown, the cutting element may be driven in one of the above described manners by a knife bar that can also accommodate articulation of the elongated shaft assembly. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 139</figref> depicts a surgical end effector <b>13212</b>″ that is substantially identical to the surgical end effector <b>13212</b> described above, except that the threaded closure rod <b>13342</b> is attached to a closure nut <b>13347</b> that is constrained to only move axially within the elongated shaft assembly <b>13208</b>. The flexible member <b>13345</b> is attached to the closure nut <b>13347</b>. Such arrangement also prevents the threaded closure rod <b>13342</b> from winding-up the flexible member <b>13345</b>. A flexible knife bar <b>13235</b>′ may be employed to facilitate articulation of the surgical end effector <b>13212</b>″.

0369The surgical tools <b>13200</b>, <b>13200</b>′, and <b>13200</b>″ described above may also employ anyone of the cutting instrument embodiments described herein. As described above, the anvil of each of the end effectors of these tools is closed by drawing the elongated channel into contact with the distal end of the elongated shaft assembly. Thus, once the target tissue has been located between the staple cartridge <b>13234</b> and the anvil <b>13224</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> can start to draw the channel <b>13222</b> inward into the shaft assembly <b>13208</b>. In various embodiments, however, to prevent the end effector <b>13212</b>, <b>13212</b>′, <b>13212</b>″ from moving the target tissue with the end effector during this closing process, the controller <b>11001</b> may simultaneously move the tool holder and ultimately the tool such to compensate for the movement of the elongated channel <b>13222</b> so that, in effect, the target tissue is clamped between the anvil and the elongated channel without being otherwise moved.

0370<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 140-142</figref> depict another surgical tool embodiment <b>13201</b> that is substantially identical to surgical tool <b>13200</b>″ described above, except for the differences discussed below. In this embodiment, the threaded closure rod <b>13342</b>′ has variable pitched grooves. More specifically, as can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 141</figref>, the closure rod <b>13342</b>′ has a distal groove section <b>13380</b> and a proximal groove section <b>13382</b>. The distal and proximal groove sections <b>13380</b>, <b>13382</b> are configured for engagement with a lug <b>13390</b> supported within the hollow threaded end portion <b>13341</b>′. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 141</figref>, the distal groove section <b>13380</b> has a finer pitch than the groove section <b>13382</b>. Thus, such variable pitch arrangement permits the elongated channel <b>13222</b> to be drawn into the shaft <b>13208</b> at a first speed or rate by virtue of the engagement between the lug <b>13390</b> and the proximal groove segment <b>13382</b>. When the lug <b>13390</b> engages the distal groove segment, the channel <b>13222</b> will be drawn into the shaft <b>13208</b> at a second speed or rate. Because the proximal groove segment <b>13382</b> is coarser than the distal groove segment <b>13380</b>, the first speed will be greater than the second speed. Such arrangement serves to speed up the initial closing of the end effector for tissue manipulation and then after the tissue has been properly positioned therein, generate the amount of closure forces to properly clamp the tissue for cutting and sealing. Thus, the anvil <b>13234</b> initially closes fast with a lower force and then applies a higher closing force as the anvil closes more slowly.

0371The surgical end effector opening and closing motions are employed to enable the user to use the end effector to grasp and manipulate tissue prior to fully clamping it in the desired location for cutting and sealing. The user may, for example, open and close the surgical end effector numerous times during this process to orient the end effector in a proper position which enables the tissue to be held in a desired location. Thus, in at least some embodiments, to produce the high loading for firing, the fine thread may require as many as 5-10 full rotations to generate the necessary load. In some cases, for example, this action could take as long as 2-5 seconds. If it also took an equally long time to open and close the end effector each time during the positioning/tissue manipulation process, just positioning the end effector may take an undesirably long time. If that happens, it is possible that a user may abandon such use of the end effector for use of a conventional grasper device. Use of graspers, etc. may undesirably increase the costs associated with completing the surgical procedure.

0372The above-described embodiments employ a battery or batteries to power the motors used to drive the end effector components. Activation of the motors is controlled by the robotic system <b>11000</b>. In alternative embodiments, the power supply may comprise alternating current “AC” that is supplied to the motors by the robotic system <b>11000</b>. That is, the AC power would be supplied from the system powering the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool holder and adapter. In still other embodiments, a power cord or tether may be attached to the tool mounting portion <b>13300</b> to supply the requisite power from a separate source of alternating or direct current.

0373In use, the controller <b>11001</b> may apply an initial rotary motion to the closure shaft <b>13340</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 137</figref>) to draw the elongated channel <b>13222</b> axially inwardly into the elongated shaft assembly <b>13208</b> and move the anvil from a first position to an intermediate position at a first rate that corresponds with the point wherein the distal groove section <b>13380</b> transitions to the proximal groove section <b>13382</b>. Further application of rotary motion to the closure shaft <b>13340</b> will cause the anvil to move from the intermediate position to the closed position relative to the surgical staple cartridge. When in the closed position, the tissue to be cut and stapled is properly clamped between the anvil and the surgical staple cartridge.

0374<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 143-147</figref> illustrate another surgical tool embodiment <b>13400</b> of the present invention. This embodiment includes an elongated shaft assembly <b>13408</b> that extends from a tool mounting portion <b>13500</b>. The elongated shaft assembly <b>13408</b> includes a rotatable proximal closure tube segment <b>13410</b> that is rotatably journaled on a proximal spine member <b>13420</b> that is rigidly coupled to a tool mounting plate <b>13502</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>13500</b>. The proximal spine member <b>13420</b> has a distal end <b>13422</b> that is coupled to an elongated channel portion <b>13522</b> of a surgical end effector <b>13412</b>. For example, in at least one embodiment, the elongated channel portion <b>13522</b> has a distal end portion <b>13523</b> that “hookingly engages” the distal end <b>13422</b> of the spine member <b>13420</b>. The elongated channel <b>13522</b> is configured to support a surgical staple cartridge <b>13534</b> therein. This embodiment may employ one of the various cutting instrument embodiments disclosed herein to sever tissue that is clamped in the surgical end effector <b>13412</b> and fire the staples in the staple cartridge <b>13534</b> into the severed tissue.

0375Surgical end effector <b>13412</b> has an anvil <b>13524</b> that is pivotally coupled to the elongated channel <b>13522</b> by a pair of trunnions <b>13525</b> that are received in corresponding openings <b>13529</b> in the elongated channel <b>13522</b>. The anvil <b>13524</b> is moved between the open (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 143</figref>) and closed positions (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 144-146</figref>) by a distal closure tube segment <b>13430</b>. A distal end portion <b>13432</b> of the distal closure tube segment <b>13430</b> includes an opening <b>13445</b> into which a tab <b>13527</b> on the anvil <b>13524</b> is inserted in order to open and close the anvil <b>13524</b> as the distal closure tube segment <b>13430</b> moves axially relative thereto. In various embodiments, the opening <b>13445</b> is shaped such that as the closure tube segment <b>13430</b> is moved in the proximal direction, the closure tube segment <b>13430</b> causes the anvil <b>13524</b> to pivot to an open position. In addition or in the alternative, a spring (not shown) may be employed to bias the anvil <b>13524</b> to the open position.

0376As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 143-146</figref>, the distal closure tube segment <b>13430</b> includes a lug <b>13442</b> that extends from its distal end <b>13440</b> into threaded engagement with a variable pitch groove/thread <b>13414</b> formed in the distal end <b>13412</b> of the rotatable proximal closure tube segment <b>13410</b>. The variable pitch groove/thread <b>13414</b> has a distal section <b>13416</b> and a proximal section <b>13418</b>. The pitch of the distal groove/thread section <b>13416</b> is finer than the pitch of the proximal groove/thread section <b>13418</b>. As can also be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 143-146</figref>, the distal closure tube segment <b>13430</b> is constrained for axial movement relative to the spine member <b>13420</b> by an axial retainer pin <b>13450</b> that is received in an axial slot <b>13424</b> in the distal end of the spine member <b>13420</b>.

0377As indicated above, the anvil <b>12524</b> is open and closed by rotating the proximal closure tube segment <b>13410</b>. The variable pitch thread arrangement permits the distal closure tube segment <b>13430</b> to be driven in the distal direction “DD” at a first speed or rate by virtue of the engagement between the lug <b>13442</b> and the proximal groove/thread section <b>13418</b>. When the lug <b>13442</b> engages the distal groove/thread section <b>13416</b>, the distal closure tube segment <b>13430</b> will be driven in the distal direction at a second speed or rate. Because the proximal groove/thread section <b>13418</b> is coarser than the distal groove/thread segment <b>13416</b>, the first speed will be greater than the second speed.

0378In at least one embodiment, the tool mounting portion <b>13500</b> is configured to receive a corresponding first rotary motion from the robotic controller <b>11001</b> and convert that first rotary motion to a primary rotary motion for rotating the rotatable proximal closure tube segment <b>13410</b> about a longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 147</figref>, a proximal end <b>13460</b> of the proximal closure tube segment <b>13410</b> is rotatably supported within a cradle arrangement <b>13504</b> attached to a tool mounting plate <b>13502</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>13500</b>. A rotation gear <b>13462</b> is formed on or attached to the proximal end <b>13460</b> of the closure tube segment <b>13410</b> for meshing engagement with a rotation drive assembly <b>13470</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>13502</b>. In at least one embodiment, a rotation drive gear <b>13472</b> is coupled to a corresponding first one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>13502</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>13500</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 146</figref>. The rotation drive assembly <b>13470</b> further comprises a rotary driven gear <b>13474</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>13502</b> in meshing engagement with the rotation gear <b>13462</b> and the rotation drive gear <b>13472</b>. Application of a first rotary control motion from the robotic controller <b>11001</b> through the tool holder <b>11270</b> and the adapter <b>11240</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>13472</b> by virtue of being operably coupled thereto. Rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>13472</b> ultimately results in the rotation of the closure tube segment <b>13410</b> to open and close the anvil <b>13524</b> as described above.

0379As indicated above, the surgical end effector <b>13412</b> employs a cutting instrument of the type and constructions described above. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 147</figref> illustrates one form of knife drive assembly <b>13480</b> for axially advancing a knife bar <b>13492</b> that is attached to such cutting instrument. One form of the knife drive assembly <b>13480</b> comprises a rotary drive gear <b>13482</b> that is coupled to a corresponding third one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>13502</b> when the tool drive portion <b>13500</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 147</figref>. The knife drive assembly <b>13480</b> further comprises a first rotary driven gear assembly <b>13484</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>15200</b>. The first rotary driven gear assembly <b>13484</b> is in meshing engagement with a third rotary driven gear assembly <b>13486</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>13502</b> and which is in meshing engagement with a fourth rotary driven gear assembly <b>13488</b> that is in meshing engagement with a threaded portion <b>13494</b> of drive shaft assembly <b>13490</b> that is coupled to the knife bar <b>13492</b>. Rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>13482</b> in a second rotary direction will result in the axial advancement of the drive shaft assembly <b>13490</b> and knife bar <b>13492</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Conversely, rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>13482</b> in a secondary rotary direction (opposite to the second rotary direction) will cause the drive shaft assembly <b>13490</b> and the knife bar <b>13492</b> to move in the proximal direction.

0380<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 148-157</figref> illustrate another surgical tool <b>13600</b> embodiment of the present invention that may be employed in connection with a robotic system <b>11000</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 148</figref>, the tool <b>13600</b> includes an end effector in the form of a disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>. Various forms of disposable loading units that may be employed in connection with tool <b>13600</b> are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2009/0206131 A1, entitled END EFFECTOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

0381In at least one form, the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> includes an anvil assembly <b>13620</b> that is supported for pivotal travel relative to a carrier <b>13630</b> that operably supports a staple cartridge <b>13640</b> therein. A mounting assembly <b>13650</b> is pivotally coupled to the cartridge carrier <b>13630</b> to enable the carrier <b>13630</b> to pivot about an articulation axis AA-AA relative to a longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 153</figref>, mounting assembly <b>13650</b> includes upper and lower mounting portions <b>13652</b> and <b>13654</b>. Each mounting portion includes a threaded bore <b>13656</b> on each side thereof dimensioned to receive threaded bolts (not shown) for securing the proximal end of carrier <b>13630</b> thereto. A pair of centrally located pivot members <b>13658</b> extends between upper and lower mounting portions via a pair of coupling members <b>13660</b> which engage a distal end of a housing portion <b>13662</b>. Coupling members <b>13660</b> each include an interlocking proximal portion <b>13664</b> configured to be received in grooves <b>13666</b> formed in the proximal end of housing portion <b>13662</b> to retain mounting assembly <b>13650</b> and housing portion <b>13662</b> in a longitudinally fixed position in relation thereto.

0382In various forms, housing portion <b>13662</b> of disposable loading unit <b>13614</b> includes an upper housing half <b>13670</b> and a lower housing half <b>13672</b> contained within an outer casing <b>13674</b>. The proximal end of housing half <b>13670</b> includes engagement nubs <b>13676</b> for releasably engaging an elongated shaft <b>13700</b> and an insertion tip <b>13678</b>. Nubs <b>13676</b> form a bayonet-type coupling with the distal end of the elongated shaft <b>13700</b> which will be discussed in further detail below. Housing halves <b>13670</b>, <b>13672</b> define a channel <b>13674</b> for slidably receiving axial drive assembly <b>13680</b>. A second articulation link <b>13690</b> is dimensioned to be slidably positioned within a slot <b>13679</b> formed between housing halves <b>13670</b>, <b>13672</b>. A pair of blow out plates <b>13691</b> are positioned adjacent the distal end of housing portion <b>13662</b> adjacent the distal end of axial drive assembly <b>13680</b> to prevent outward bulging of drive assembly <b>13680</b> during articulation of carrier <b>13630</b>.

0383In various embodiments, the second articulation link <b>13690</b> includes at least one elongated metallic plate. Preferably, two or more metallic plates are stacked to form link <b>13690</b>. The proximal end of articulation link <b>13690</b> includes a hook portion <b>13692</b> configured to engage first articulation link <b>13710</b> extending through the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>. The distal end of the second articulation link <b>13690</b> includes a loop <b>13694</b> dimensioned to engage a projection formed on mounting assembly <b>13650</b>. The projection is laterally offset from pivot pin <b>13658</b> such that linear movement of second articulation link <b>13690</b> causes mounting assembly <b>13650</b> to pivot about pivot pins <b>13658</b> to articulate the carrier <b>13630</b>.

0384In various forms, axial drive assembly <b>13680</b> includes an elongated drive beam <b>13682</b> including a distal working head <b>13684</b> and a proximal engagement section <b>13685</b>. Drive beam <b>13682</b> may be constructed from a single sheet of material or, preferably, multiple stacked sheets. Engagement section <b>13685</b> includes a pair of engagement fingers which are dimensioned and configured to mountingly engage a pair of corresponding retention slots formed in drive member <b>13686</b>. Drive member <b>13686</b> includes a proximal porthole <b>13687</b> configured to receive the distal end <b>13722</b> of control rod <b>12720</b> (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 157</figref>) when the proximal end of disposable loading unit <b>13614</b> is engaged with elongated shaft <b>13700</b> of surgical tool <b>13600</b>.

0385Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 148 and 155-157</figref>, to use the surgical tool <b>13600</b>, a disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> is first secured to the distal end of elongated shaft <b>13700</b>. It will be appreciated that the surgical tool <b>13600</b> may include an articulating or a non-articulating disposable loading unit. To secure the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> to the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>, the distal end <b>13722</b> of control rod <b>13720</b> is inserted into insertion tip <b>13678</b> of disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>, and insertion tip <b>13678</b> is slid longitudinally into the distal end of the elongated shaft <b>13700</b> in the direction indicated by arrow “A” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 155</figref> such that hook portion <b>13692</b> of second articulation link <b>13690</b> slides within a channel <b>13702</b> in the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>. Nubs <b>13676</b> will each be aligned in a respective channel (not shown) in elongated shaft <b>13700</b>. When hook portion <b>13692</b> engages the proximal wall <b>13704</b> of channel <b>13702</b>, disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> is rotated in the direction indicated by arrow “B” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 154 and 157</figref> to move hook portion <b>13692</b> of second articulation link <b>13690</b> into engagement with finger <b>13712</b> of first articulation link <b>13710</b>. Nubs <b>13676</b> also form a “bayonet-type” coupling within annular channel <b>13703</b> in the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>. During rotation of loading unit <b>13612</b>, nubs <b>13676</b> engage cam surface <b>13732</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 155</figref>) of block plate <b>13730</b> to initially move plate <b>13730</b> in the direction indicated by arrow “C” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 155</figref> to lock engagement member <b>13734</b> in recess <b>13721</b> of control rod <b>13720</b> to prevent longitudinal movement of control rod <b>13720</b> during attachment of disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>. During the final degree of rotation, nubs <b>13676</b> disengage from cam surface <b>13732</b> to allow blocking plate <b>13730</b> to move in the direction indicated by arrow “D” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 154 and 157</figref> from behind engagement member <b>13734</b> to once again permit longitudinal movement of control rod <b>13720</b>. While the above-described attachment method reflects that the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> is manipulated relative to the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>, the person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> may be supported in a stationary position and the robotic system <b>11000</b> may manipulate the elongated shaft portion <b>13700</b> relative to the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> to accomplish the above-described coupling procedure.

0386<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 158</figref> illustrates another disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>′ that is attachable in a bayonet-type arrangement with the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>′ that is substantially identical to shaft <b>13700</b> except for the differences discussed below. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 158</figref>, the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>′ has slots <b>13705</b> that extend for at least a portion thereof and which are configured to receive nubs <b>13676</b> therein. In various embodiments, the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>′ includes arms <b>13677</b> extending therefrom which, prior to the rotation of disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>′, can be aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with nubs <b>13676</b> extending from housing portion <b>13662</b>. In at least one embodiment, arms <b>13677</b> and nubs <b>13676</b> can be inserted into slots <b>13705</b> in elongated shaft <b>13700</b>′, for example, when disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>′ is inserted into elongated shaft <b>13700</b>′. When disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>′ is rotated, arms <b>13677</b> can be sufficiently confined within slots <b>13705</b> such that slots <b>13705</b> can hold them in position, whereas nubs <b>13676</b> can be positioned such that they are not confined within slots <b>13705</b> and can be rotated relative to arms <b>13677</b>. When rotated, the hook portion <b>13692</b> of the articulation link <b>13690</b> is engaged with the first articulation link <b>13710</b> extending through the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>′.

0387Other methods of coupling the disposable loading units to the end of the elongated shaft may be employed. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 159 and 160</figref>, disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>″ can include connector portion <b>13613</b> which can be configured to be engaged with connector portion <b>13740</b> of the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>″. In at least one embodiment, connector portion <b>13613</b> can include at least one projection and/or groove which can be mated with at least one projection and/or groove of connector portion <b>13740</b>. In at least one such embodiment, the connector portions can include co-operating dovetail portions. In various embodiments, the connector portions can be configured to interlock with one another and prevent, or at least inhibit, distal and/or proximal movement of disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>″ along axis <b>13741</b>. In at least one embodiment, the distal end of the axial drive assembly <b>13680</b>′ can include aperture <b>13681</b> which can be configured to receive projection <b>13721</b> extending from control rod <b>13720</b>′. In various embodiments, such an arrangement can allow disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>″ to be assembled to elongated shaft <b>13700</b> in a direction which is not collinear with or parallel to axis <b>13741</b>. Although not illustrated, axial drive assembly <b>13680</b>′ and control rod <b>13720</b> can include any other suitable arrangement of projections and apertures to operably connect them to each other. Also in this embodiment, the first articulation link <b>13710</b> which can be operably engaged with second articulation link <b>13690</b>.

0388As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 148 and 161</figref>, the surgical tool <b>13600</b> includes a tool mounting portion <b>13750</b>. The tool mounting portion <b>13750</b> includes a tool mounting plate <b>13751</b> that is configured for attachment to the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b>. The tool mounting portion operably supported a transmission arrangement <b>13752</b> thereon. In use, it may be desirable to rotate the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> about the longitudinal tool axis defined by the elongated shaft <b>13700</b>. In at least one embodiment, the transmission arrangement <b>13752</b> includes a rotational transmission assembly <b>13753</b> that is configured to receive a corresponding rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> and convert that rotary output motion to a rotary control motion for rotating the elongated shaft <b>13700</b> (and the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 161</figref>, a proximal end <b>13701</b> of the elongated shaft <b>13700</b> is rotatably supported within a cradle arrangement <b>13754</b> that is attached to the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>13750</b>. A rotation gear <b>13755</b> is formed on or attached to the proximal end <b>13701</b> of the elongated shaft <b>13700</b> for meshing engagement with a rotation gear assembly <b>13756</b> operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b>. In at least one embodiment, a rotation drive gear <b>13757</b> drivingly coupled to a corresponding first one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>13750</b> is coupled to the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b>. The rotation transmission assembly <b>13753</b> further comprises a rotary driven gear <b>13758</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b> in meshing engagement with the rotation gear <b>13755</b> and the rotation drive gear <b>13757</b>. Application of a first rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>13757</b> by virtue of being operably coupled thereto. Rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>13757</b> ultimately results in the rotation of the elongated shaft <b>13700</b> (and the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT (primary rotary motion).

0389As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 161</figref>, a drive shaft assembly <b>13760</b> is coupled to a proximal end of the control rod <b>12720</b>. In various embodiments, the control rod <b>12720</b> is axially advanced in the distal and proximal directions by a knife/closure drive transmission <b>13762</b>. One form of the knife/closure drive assembly <b>13762</b> comprises a rotary drive gear <b>13763</b> that is coupled to a corresponding second one of the driven rotatable body portions, discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>13750</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. The rotary driven gear <b>13763</b> is in meshing driving engagement with a gear train, generally depicted as <b>13764</b>. In at least one form, the gear train <b>13764</b> further comprises a first rotary driven gear assembly <b>13765</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b>. The first rotary driven gear assembly <b>13765</b> is in meshing engagement with a second rotary driven gear assembly <b>13766</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b> and which is in meshing engagement with a third rotary driven gear assembly <b>13767</b> that is in meshing engagement with a threaded portion <b>13768</b> of the drive shaft assembly <b>13760</b>. Rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>13763</b> in a second rotary direction will result in the axial advancement of the drive shaft assembly <b>13760</b> and control rod <b>12720</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Conversely, rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>13763</b> in a secondary rotary direction which is opposite to the second rotary direction will cause the drive shaft assembly <b>13760</b> and the control rod <b>12720</b> to move in the proximal direction. When the control rod <b>12720</b> moves in the distal direction, it drives the drive beam <b>13682</b> and the working head <b>13684</b> thereof distally through the surgical staple cartridge <b>13640</b>. As the working head <b>13684</b> is driven distally, it operably engages the anvil <b>13620</b> to pivot it to a closed position.

0390The cartridge carrier <b>13630</b> may be selectively articulated about articulation axis AA-AA by applying axial articulation control motions to the first and second articulation links <b>13710</b> and <b>13690</b>. In various embodiments, the transmission arrangement <b>13752</b> further includes an articulation drive <b>13770</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b>. More specifically and with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 161</figref>, it can be seen that a proximal end portion <b>13772</b> of an articulation drive shaft <b>13771</b> configured to operably engage with the first articulation link <b>13710</b> extends through the rotation gear <b>13755</b> and is rotatably coupled to a shifter rack gear <b>13774</b> that is slidably affixed to the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b> through slots <b>13775</b>. The articulation drive <b>13770</b> further comprises a shifter drive gear <b>13776</b> that is coupled to a corresponding third one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>13750</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. The articulation drive assembly <b>13770</b> further comprises a shifter driven gear <b>13778</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>13751</b> in meshing engagement with the shifter drive gear <b>13776</b> and the shifter rack gear <b>13774</b>. Application of a third rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the shifter drive gear <b>13776</b> by virtue of being operably coupled thereto. Rotation of the shifter drive gear <b>13776</b> ultimately results in the axial movement of the shifter gear rack <b>13774</b> and the articulation drive shaft <b>13771</b>. The direction of axial travel of the articulation drive shaft <b>13771</b> depends upon the direction in which the shifter drive gear <b>13776</b> is rotated by the robotic system <b>11000</b>. Thus, rotation of the shifter drive gear <b>13776</b> in a first rotary direction will result in the axial movement of the articulation drive shaft <b>13771</b> in the proximal direction “PD” and cause the cartridge carrier <b>13630</b> to pivot in a first direction about articulation axis AA-AA. Conversely, rotation of the shifter drive gear <b>13776</b> in a second rotary direction (opposite to the first rotary direction) will result in the axial movement of the articulation drive shaft <b>13771</b> in the distal direction “DD” to thereby cause the cartridge carrier <b>13630</b> to pivot about articulation axis AA-AA in an opposite direction.

0391<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 162</figref> illustrates yet another surgical tool <b>13800</b> embodiment of the present invention that may be employed with a robotic system <b>11000</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 162</figref>, the surgical tool <b>13800</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>13812</b> in the form of an endocutter <b>13814</b> that employs various cable-driven components. Various forms of cable driven endocutters are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,726,537, entitled SURGICAL STAPLER WITH UNIVERSAL ARTICULATION AND TISSUE PRE-CLAMP and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2008/0308603A1, entitled CABLE DRIVEN SURGICAL STAPLING AND CUTTING INSTRUMENT WITH IMPROVED CABLE ATTACHMENT ARRANGEMENTS, the disclosures of each are herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties. Such endocutters <b>13814</b> may be referred to as a “disposable loading unit” because they are designed to be disposed of after a single use. However, the various unique and novel arrangements of various embodiments of the present invention may also be employed in connection with cable driven end effectors that are reusable.

0392As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 163</figref>, in at least one form, the endocutter <b>13814</b> includes an elongated channel <b>13822</b> that operably supports a surgical staple cartridge <b>13834</b> therein. An anvil <b>13824</b> is pivotally supported for movement relative to the surgical staple cartridge <b>13834</b>. The anvil <b>13824</b> has a cam surface <b>13825</b> that is configured for interaction with a preclamping collar <b>13840</b> that is supported for axial movement relative thereto. The end effector <b>13814</b> is coupled to an elongated shaft assembly <b>13808</b> that is attached to a tool mounting portion <b>13900</b>. In various embodiments, a closure cable <b>13850</b> is employed to move pre-clamping collar <b>13840</b> distally onto and over cam surface <b>13825</b> to close the anvil <b>13824</b> relative to the surgical staple cartridge <b>13834</b> and compress the tissue therebetween. Preferably, closure cable <b>13850</b> attaches to the pre-clamping collar <b>13840</b> at or near point <b>13841</b> and is fed through a passageway in anvil <b>13824</b> (or under a proximal portion of anvil <b>13824</b>) and fed proximally through shaft <b>13808</b>. Actuation of closure cable <b>13850</b> in the proximal direction “PD” forces pre-clamping collar <b>13840</b> distally against cam surface <b>13825</b> to close anvil <b>13824</b> relative to staple cartridge assembly <b>13834</b>. A return mechanism, e.g., a spring, cable system or the like, may be employed to return pre-clamping collar <b>13840</b> to a pre-clamping orientation which re-opens the anvil <b>13824</b>.

0393The elongated shaft assembly <b>13808</b> may be cylindrical in shape and define a channel <b>13811</b> which may be dimensioned to receive a tube adapter <b>13870</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 163</figref>. In various embodiments, the tube adapter <b>13870</b> may be slidingly received in friction-fit engagement with the internal channel of elongated shaft <b>13808</b>. The outer surface of the tube adapter <b>13870</b> may further include at least one mechanical interface, e.g., a cutout or notch <b>13871</b>, oriented to mate with a corresponding mechanical interface, e.g., a radially inwardly extending protrusion or detent (not shown), disposed on the inner periphery of internal channel <b>13811</b> to lock the tube adapter <b>13870</b> to the elongated shaft <b>13808</b>. In various embodiments, the distal end of tube adapter <b>13870</b> may include a pair of opposing flanges <b>13872</b><i>a </i>and <b>13872</b><i>b </i>which define a cavity for pivotably receiving a pivot block <b>13873</b> therein. Each flange <b>13872</b><i>a </i>and <b>13872</b><i>b </i>may include an aperture <b>13874</b><i>a </i>and <b>13874</b><i>b </i>that is oriented to receive a pivot pin <b>13875</b> that extends through an aperture in pivot block <b>13873</b> to allow pivotable movement of pivot block <b>13873</b> about an axis that is perpendicular to longitudinal tool axis “LT-LT”. The channel <b>13822</b> may be formed with two upwardly extending flanges <b>13823</b><i>a</i>, <b>13823</b><i>b </i>that have apertures therein, which are dimensioned to receive a pivot pin <b>13827</b>. In turn, pivot pin <b>13875</b> mounts through apertures in pivot block <b>13873</b> to permit rotation of the surgical end effector <b>13814</b> about the “Y” axis as needed during a given surgical procedure. Rotation of pivot block <b>13873</b> about pin <b>13875</b> along “Z” axis rotates the surgical end effector <b>13814</b> about the “Z” axis. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 163</figref>. Other methods of fastening the elongated channel <b>13822</b> to the pivot block <b>13873</b> may be effectively employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

0394The surgical staple cartridge <b>13834</b> can be assembled and mounted within the elongated channel <b>13822</b> during the manufacturing or assembly process and sold as part of the surgical end effector <b>13812</b>, or the surgical staple cartridge <b>13834</b> may be designed for selective mounting within the elongated channel <b>13822</b> as needed and sold separately, e.g., as a single use replacement, replaceable or disposable staple cartridge assembly. It is within the scope of this disclosure that the surgical end effector <b>13812</b> may be pivotally, operatively, or integrally attached, for example, to distal end <b>13809</b> of the elongated shaft assembly <b>13808</b> of a disposable surgical stapler. As is known, a used or spent disposable loading unit <b>13814</b> can be removed from the elongated shaft assembly <b>13808</b> and replaced with an unused disposable unit. The endocutter <b>13814</b> may also preferably include an actuator, preferably a dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b>, a sled <b>13862</b>, as well as staple pushers (not shown) and staples (not shown) once an unspent or unused cartridge <b>13834</b> is mounted in the elongated channel <b>13822</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 163</figref>.

0395In various embodiments, the dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b> is associated with, e.g., mounted on and rides on, or with or is connected to or integral with and/or rides behind sled <b>13862</b>. It is envisioned that dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b> can have cam wedges or cam surfaces attached or integrally formed or be pushed by a leading distal surface thereof. In various embodiments, dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b> may include an upper portion <b>13863</b> having a transverse aperture <b>13864</b> with a pin <b>13865</b> mountable or mounted therein, a central support or upward extension <b>13866</b> and substantially T-shaped bottom flange <b>13867</b> which cooperate to slidingly retain dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b> along an ideal cutting path during longitudinal, distal movement of sled <b>13862</b>. The leading cutting edge <b>13868</b>, here, knife blade <b>13869</b>, is dimensioned to ride within slot <b>13835</b> of staple cartridge assembly <b>13834</b> and separate tissue once stapled. As used herein, the term “knife assembly” may include the aforementioned dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b>, knife <b>13869</b>, and sled <b>13862</b> or other knife/beam/sled drive arrangements and cutting instrument arrangements. In addition, the various embodiments of the present invention may be employed with knife assembly/cutting instrument arrangements that may be entirely supported in the staple cartridge <b>13834</b> or partially supported in the staple cartridge <b>13834</b> and elongated channel <b>13822</b> or entirely supported within the elongated channel <b>13822</b>.

0396In various embodiments, the dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b> may be driven in the proximal and distal directions by a cable drive assembly <b>13870</b>. In one non-limiting form, the cable drive assembly comprises a pair of advance cables <b>13880</b>, <b>13882</b> and a firing cable <b>13884</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 164 and 165</figref> illustrate the cables <b>13880</b>, <b>13882</b>, <b>13884</b> in diagrammatic form. As can be seen in those Figures, a first advance cable <b>13880</b> is operably supported on a first distal cable transition support <b>13885</b> which may comprise, for example, a pulley, rod, capstan, etc. that is attached to the distal end of the elongated channel <b>13822</b> and a first proximal cable transition support <b>13886</b> which may comprise, for example, a pulley, rod, capstan, etc. that is operably supported by the elongated channel <b>13822</b>. A distal end <b>13881</b> of the first advance cable <b>13880</b> is affixed to the dynamic clamping assembly <b>13860</b>. The second advance cable <b>13882</b> is operably supported on a second distal cable transition support <b>13887</b> which may, for example, comprise a pulley, rod, capstan etc. that is mounted to the distal end of the elongated channel <b>13822</b> and a second proximal cable transition support <b>13888</b> which may, for example, comprise a pulley, rod, capstan, etc. mounted to the proximal end of the elongated channel <b>13822</b>. The proximal end <b>13883</b> of the second advance cable <b>13882</b> may be attached to the dynamic clamping assembly <b>13860</b>. Also in these embodiments, an endless firing cable <b>13884</b> is employed and journaled on a support <b>13889</b> that may comprise a pulley, rod, capstan, etc. mounted within the elongated shaft <b>13808</b>. In one embodiment, the retract cable <b>13884</b> may be formed in a loop and coupled to a connector <b>13889</b>′ that is fixedly attached to the first and second advance cables <b>13880</b>, <b>13882</b>.

0397Various non-limiting embodiments of the present invention include a cable drive transmission <b>13920</b> that is operably supported on a tool mounting plate <b>13902</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>13900</b>. The tool mounting portion <b>13900</b> has an array of electrical connecting pins <b>13904</b> which are configured to interface with the slots <b>11258</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 104</figref>) in the adapter <b>11240</b>′. Such arrangement permits the robotic system <b>11000</b> to provide control signals to a control circuit <b>13910</b> of the tool <b>13800</b>. While the interface is described herein with reference to mechanical, electrical, and magnetic coupling elements, it should be understood that a wide variety of telemetry modalities might be used, including infrared, inductive coupling, or the like.

0398Control circuit <b>13910</b> is shown in schematic form in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 162</figref>. In one form or embodiment, the control circuit <b>13910</b> includes a power supply in the form of a battery <b>13912</b> that is coupled to an on-off solenoid powered switch <b>13914</b>. In other embodiments, however, the power supply may comprise a source of alternating current. Control circuit <b>13910</b> further includes an on/off solenoid <b>13916</b> that is coupled to a double pole switch <b>13918</b> for controlling motor rotation direction. Thus, when the robotic system <b>11000</b> supplies an appropriate control signal, switch <b>13914</b> will permit battery <b>13912</b> to supply power to the double pole switch <b>13918</b>. The robotic system <b>11000</b> will also supply an appropriate signal to the double pole switch <b>13918</b> to supply power to a shifter motor <b>13922</b>.

0399Turning to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 166-171</figref>, at least one embodiment of the cable drive transmission <b>13920</b> comprises a drive pulley <b>13930</b> that is operably mounted to a drive shaft <b>13932</b> that is attached to a driven element <b>11304</b> of the type and construction described above that is designed to interface with a corresponding drive element <b>11250</b> of the adapter <b>11240</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 104 and 169</figref>. Thus, when the tool mounting portion <b>13900</b> is operably coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>, the robot system <b>11000</b> can apply rotary motion to the drive pulley <b>13930</b> in a desired direction. A first drive member or belt <b>13934</b> drivingly engages the drive pulley <b>13930</b> and a second drive shaft <b>13936</b> that is rotatably supported on a shifter yoke <b>13940</b>. The shifter yoke <b>13940</b> is operably coupled to the shifter motor <b>13922</b> such that rotation of the shaft <b>13923</b> of the shifter motor <b>13922</b> in a first direction will shift the shifter yoke in a first direction “FD” and rotation of the shifter motor shaft <b>13923</b> in a second direction will shift the shifter yoke <b>13940</b> in a second direction “SD”. Other embodiments of the present invention may employ a shifter solenoid arrangement for shifting the shifter yoke in said first and second directions.

0400As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 166-169</figref>, a closure drive gear <b>13950</b> mounted to a second drive shaft <b>13936</b> and is configured to selectively mesh with a closure drive assembly, generally designated as <b>13951</b>. Likewise a firing drive gear <b>13960</b> is also mounted to the second drive shaft <b>13936</b> and is configured to selectively mesh with a firing drive assembly generally designated as <b>13961</b>. Rotation of the second drive shaft <b>13936</b> causes the closure drive gear <b>13950</b> and the firing drive gear <b>13960</b> to rotate. In one non-limiting embodiment, the closure drive assembly <b>13951</b> comprises a closure driven gear <b>13952</b> that is coupled to a first closure pulley <b>13954</b> that is rotatably supported on a third drive shaft <b>13956</b>. The closure cable <b>13850</b> is drivingly received on the first closure pulley <b>13954</b> such that rotation of the closure driven gear <b>13952</b> will drive the closure cable <b>13850</b>. Likewise, the firing drive assembly <b>13961</b> comprises a firing driven gear <b>13962</b> that is coupled to a first firing pulley <b>13964</b> that is rotatably supported on the third drive shaft <b>13956</b>. The first and second driving pulleys <b>13954</b> and <b>13964</b> are independently rotatable on the third drive shaft <b>13956</b>. The firing cable <b>13884</b> is drivingly received on the first firing pulley <b>13964</b> such that rotation of the firing driven gear <b>13962</b> will drive the firing cable <b>13884</b>.

0401Also in various embodiments, the cable drive transmission <b>13920</b> further includes a braking assembly <b>13970</b>. In at least one embodiment, for example, the braking assembly <b>13970</b> includes a closure brake <b>13972</b> that comprises a spring arm <b>13973</b> that is attached to a portion of the transmission housing <b>13971</b>. The closure brake <b>13972</b> has a gear lug <b>13974</b> that is sized to engage the teeth of the closure driven gear <b>13952</b> as will be discussed in further detail below. The braking assembly <b>13970</b> further includes a firing brake <b>13976</b> that comprises a spring arm <b>13977</b> that is attached to another portion of the transmission housing <b>13971</b>. The firing brake <b>13976</b> has a gear lug <b>13978</b> that is sized to engage the teeth of the firing driven gear <b>13962</b>.

0402At least one embodiment of the surgical tool <b>13800</b> may be used as follows. The tool mounting portion <b>13900</b> is operably coupled to the interface <b>11240</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>. The controller or control unit of the robotic system is operated to locate the tissue to be cut and stapled between the open anvil <b>13824</b> and the staple cartridge <b>13834</b>. When in that initial position, the braking assembly <b>13970</b> has locked the closure driven gear <b>13952</b> and the firing driven gear <b>13962</b> such that they cannot rotate. That is, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 167</figref>, the gear lug <b>13974</b> is in locking engagement with the closure driven gear <b>13952</b> and the gear lug <b>13978</b> is in locking engagement with the firing driven gear <b>13962</b>. Once the surgical end effector <b>13814</b> has been properly located, the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> will provide a control signal to the shifter motor <b>13922</b> (or shifter solenoid) to move the shifter yoke <b>13940</b> in the first direction. As the shifter yoke <b>13940</b> is moved in the first direction, the closure drive gear <b>13950</b> moves the gear lug <b>13974</b> out of engagement with the closure driven gear <b>13952</b> as it moves into meshing engagement with the closure driven gear <b>13952</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 166</figref>, when in that position, the gear lug <b>13978</b> remains in locking engagement with the firing driven gear <b>13962</b> to prevent actuation of the firing system. Thereafter, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> provides a first rotary actuation motion to the drive pulley <b>13930</b> through the interface between the driven element <b>11304</b> and the corresponding components of the tool holder <b>11240</b>. As the drive pulley <b>13930</b> is rotated in the first direction, the closure cable <b>13850</b> is rotated to drive the preclamping collar <b>13840</b> into closing engagement with the cam surface <b>13825</b> of the anvil <b>13824</b> to move it to the closed position thereby clamping the target tissue between the anvil <b>13824</b> and the staple cartridge <b>13834</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 162</figref>. Once the anvil <b>13824</b> has been moved to the closed position, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> stops the application of the first rotary motion to the drive pulley <b>13930</b>. Thereafter, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may commence the firing process by sending another control signal to the shifter motor <b>13922</b> (or shifter solenoid) to cause the shifter yoke to move in the second direction “SD” as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 168</figref>. As the shifter yoke <b>13940</b> is moved in the second direction, the firing drive gear <b>13960</b> moves the gear lug <b>13978</b> out of engagement with the firing driven gear <b>13962</b> as it moves into meshing engagement with the firing driven gear <b>13962</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 168</figref>, when in that position, the gear lug <b>13974</b> remains in locking engagement with the closure driven gear <b>13952</b> to prevent actuation of the closure system. Thereafter, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> is activated to provide the first rotary actuation motion to the drive pulley <b>13930</b> through the interface between the driven element <b>11304</b> and the corresponding components of the tool holder <b>11240</b>. As the drive pulley <b>13930</b> is rotated in the first direction, the firing cable <b>13884</b> is rotated to drive the dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b> in the distal direction “DD” thereby firing the stapes and cutting the tissue clamped in the end effector <b>13814</b>. Once the robotic system <b>11000</b> determines that the dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b> has reached its distal most position—either through sensors or through monitoring the amount of rotary input applied to the drive pulley <b>13930</b>, the controller <b>11001</b> may then apply a second rotary motion to the drive pulley <b>13930</b> to rotate the closure cable <b>13850</b> in an opposite direction to cause the dynamic clamping member <b>13860</b> to be retracted in the proximal direction “PD”. Once the dynamic clamping member has been retracted to the starting position, the application of the second rotary motion to the drive pulley <b>13930</b> is discontinued. Thereafter, the shifter motor <b>13922</b> (or shifter solenoid) is powered to move the shifter yoke <b>13940</b> to the closure position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 166</figref>). Once the closure drive gear <b>13950</b> is in meshing engagement with the closure driven gear <b>13952</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may once again apply the second rotary motion to the drive pulley <b>13930</b>. Rotation of the drive pulley <b>13930</b> in the second direction causes the closure cable <b>13850</b> to retract the preclamping collar <b>13840</b> out of engagement with the cam surface <b>13825</b> of the anvil <b>13824</b> to permit the anvil <b>13824</b> to move to an open position (by a spring or other means) to release the stapled tissue from the surgical end effector <b>13814</b>.

0403<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 172</figref> illustrates a surgical tool <b>14000</b> that employs a gear driven firing bar <b>14092</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 173-175</figref>. This embodiment includes an elongated shaft assembly <b>14008</b> that extends from a tool mounting portion <b>14100</b>. The tool mounting portion <b>14100</b> includes a tool mounting plate <b>14102</b> that operable supports a transmission arrangement <b>14103</b> thereon. The elongated shaft assembly <b>14008</b> includes a rotatable proximal closure tube <b>14010</b> that is rotatably journaled on a proximal spine member <b>14020</b> that is rigidly coupled to the tool mounting plate <b>14102</b>. The proximal spine member <b>14020</b> has a distal end that is coupled to an elongated channel portion <b>14022</b> of a surgical end effector <b>14012</b>. The surgical effector <b>14012</b> may be substantially similar to surgical end effector <b>13412</b> described above. In addition, the anvil <b>14024</b> of the surgical end effector <b>14012</b> may be opened and closed by a distal closure tube <b>14030</b> that operably interfaces with the proximal closure tube <b>14010</b>. Distal closure tube <b>14030</b> is identical to distal closure tube <b>13430</b> described above. Similarly, proximal closure tube <b>14010</b> is identical to proximal closure tube segment <b>13410</b> described above.

0404Anvil <b>14024</b> is opened and closed by rotating the proximal closure tube <b>14010</b> in manner described above with respect to distal closure tube <b>13410</b>. In at least one embodiment, the transmission arrangement comprises a closure transmission, generally designated as <b>14011</b>. As will be further discussed below, the closure transmission <b>14011</b> is configured to receive a corresponding first rotary motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> and convert that first rotary motion to a primary rotary motion for rotating the rotatable proximal closure tube <b>14010</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 175</figref>, a proximal end <b>14060</b> of the proximal closure tube <b>14010</b> is rotatably supported within a cradle arrangement <b>14104</b> that is attached to a tool mounting plate <b>14102</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>14100</b>. A rotation gear <b>14062</b> is formed on or attached to the proximal end <b>14060</b> of the closure tube segment <b>14010</b> for meshing engagement with a rotation drive assembly <b>14070</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>14102</b>. In at least one embodiment, a rotation drive gear <b>14072</b> is coupled to a corresponding first one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>14102</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>14100</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 175</figref>. The rotation drive assembly <b>14070</b> further comprises a rotary driven gear <b>14074</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>14102</b> in meshing engagement with the rotation gear <b>14062</b> and the rotation drive gear <b>14072</b>. Application of a first rotary control motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool holder <b>11270</b> and the adapter <b>11240</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>14072</b> by virtue of being operably coupled thereto. Rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>14072</b> ultimately results in the rotation of the closure tube segment <b>14010</b> to open and close the anvil <b>14024</b> as described above.

0405As indicated above, the end effector <b>14012</b> employs a cutting element <b>13860</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 173 and 174</figref>. In at least one non-limiting embodiment, the transmission arrangement <b>14103</b> further comprises a knife drive transmission that includes a knife drive assembly <b>14080</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 175</figref> illustrates one form of knife drive assembly <b>14080</b> for axially advancing the knife bar <b>14092</b> that is attached to such cutting element using cables as described above with respect to surgical tool <b>13800</b>. In particular, the knife bar <b>14092</b> replaces the firing cable <b>13884</b> employed in an embodiment of surgical tool <b>13800</b>. One form of the knife drive assembly <b>14080</b> comprises a rotary drive gear <b>14082</b> that is coupled to a corresponding second one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>14102</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>14100</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 105 and 175</figref>. The knife drive assembly <b>14080</b> further comprises a first rotary driven gear assembly <b>14084</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>14102</b>. The first rotary driven gear assembly <b>14084</b> is in meshing engagement with a third rotary driven gear assembly <b>14086</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>14102</b> and which is in meshing engagement with a fourth rotary driven gear assembly <b>14088</b> that is in meshing engagement with a threaded portion <b>14094</b> of drive shaft assembly <b>14090</b> that is coupled to the knife bar <b>14092</b>. Rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>14082</b> in a second rotary direction will result in the axial advancement of the drive shaft assembly <b>14090</b> and knife bar <b>14092</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Conversely, rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>14082</b> in a secondary rotary direction (opposite to the second rotary direction) will cause the drive shaft assembly <b>14090</b> and the knife bar <b>14092</b> to move in the proximal direction. Movement of the firing bar <b>14092</b> in the proximal direction “PD” will drive the cutting element <b>31860</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Conversely, movement of the firing bar <b>41092</b> in the distal direction “DD” will result in the movement of the cutting element <b>13860</b> in the proximal direction “PD”.

0406<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 176-182</figref> illustrate yet another surgical tool <b>15000</b> that may be effectively employed in connection with a robotic system <b>11000</b>. In various forms, the surgical tool <b>15000</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>15012</b> in the form of a surgical stapling instrument that includes an elongated channel <b>15020</b> and a pivotally translatable clamping member, such as an anvil <b>15070</b>, which are maintained at a spacing that assures effective stapling and severing of tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>15012</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 178</figref>, the elongated channel <b>15020</b> may be substantially U-shaped in cross-section and be fabricated from, for example, titanium, 203 stainless steel, 304 stainless steel, 416 stainless steel, 17-4 stainless steel, 17-7 stainless steel, 6061 or 7075 aluminum, chromium steel, ceramic, etc. A substantially U-shaped metal channel pan <b>15022</b> may be supported in the bottom of the elongated channel <b>15020</b> as shown.

0407Various embodiments include an actuation member in the form of a sled assembly <b>15030</b> that is operably supported within the surgical end effector <b>15012</b> and axially movable therein between a starting position and an ending position in response to control motions applied thereto. In some forms, the metal channel pan <b>15022</b> has a centrally-disposed slot <b>15024</b> therein to movably accommodate a base portion <b>15032</b> of the sled assembly <b>15030</b>. The base portion <b>15032</b> includes a foot portion <b>15034</b> that is sized to be slidably received in a slot <b>15021</b> in the elongated channel <b>15020</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 178</figref>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 177, 178, 181, and 182</figref>, the base portion <b>15032</b> of sled assembly <b>15030</b> includes an axially extending threaded bore <b>15036</b> that is configured to be threadedly received on a threaded drive shaft <b>15130</b> as will be discussed in further detail below. In addition, the sled assembly <b>15030</b> includes an upstanding support portion <b>15038</b> that supports a tissue cutting blade or tissue cutting instrument <b>15040</b>. The upstanding support portion <b>15038</b> terminates in a top portion <b>15042</b> that has a pair of laterally extending retaining fins <b>15044</b> protruding therefrom. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 178</figref>, the fins <b>15044</b> are positioned to be received within corresponding slots <b>15072</b> in anvil <b>15070</b>. The fins <b>15044</b> and the foot <b>15034</b> serve to retain the anvil <b>15070</b> in a desired spaced closed position as the sled assembly <b>15030</b> is driven distally through the tissue clamped within the surgical end effector <b>15014</b>. As can also be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 180 and 182</figref>, the sled assembly <b>15030</b> further includes a reciprocatably or sequentially activatable drive assembly <b>15050</b> for driving staple pushers toward the closed anvil <b>15070</b>.

0408More specifically and with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 178 and 179</figref>, the elongated channel <b>15020</b> is configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge <b>15080</b> therein. In at least one form, the surgical staple cartridge <b>15080</b> comprises a body portion <b>15082</b> that may be fabricated from, for example, Vectra, Nylon (6/6 or 6/12) and include a centrally disposed slot <b>15084</b> for accommodating the upstanding support portion <b>15038</b> of the sled assembly <b>15030</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 178</figref>. These materials could also be filled with glass, carbon, or mineral fill of 10%-40%. The surgical staple cartridge <b>15080</b> further includes a plurality of cavities <b>15086</b> for movably supporting lines or rows of staple-supporting pushers <b>15088</b> therein. The cavities <b>15086</b> may be arranged in spaced longitudinally extending lines or rows <b>15090</b>, <b>15092</b>, <b>15094</b>, <b>15096</b>. For example, the rows <b>15090</b> may be referred to herein as first outboard rows. The rows <b>15092</b> may be referred to herein as first inboard rows. The rows <b>15094</b> may be referred to as second inboard rows and the rows <b>15096</b> may be referred to as second outboard rows. The first inboard row <b>15090</b> and the first outboard row <b>15092</b> are located on a first lateral side of the longitudinal slot <b>15084</b> and the second inboard row <b>15094</b> and the second outboard row <b>15096</b> are located on a second lateral side of the longitudinal slot <b>15084</b>. The first staple pushers <b>15088</b> in the first inboard row <b>15092</b> are staggered in relationship to the first staple pushers <b>15088</b> in the first outboard row <b>15090</b>. Similarly, the second staple pushers <b>15088</b> in the second outboard row <b>15096</b> are staggered in relationship to the second pushers <b>15088</b> in the second inboard row <b>15094</b>. Each pusher <b>15088</b> operably supports a surgical staple <b>15098</b> thereon.

0409In various embodiments, the sequentially-activatable or reciprocatably—activatable drive assembly <b>15050</b> includes a pair of outboard drivers <b>15052</b> and a pair of inboard drivers <b>15054</b> that are each attached to a common shaft <b>15056</b> that is rotatably mounted within the base <b>15032</b> of the sled assembly <b>15030</b>. The outboard drivers <b>15052</b> are oriented to sequentially or reciprocatingly engage a corresponding plurality of outboard activation cavities <b>15026</b> provided in the channel pan <b>15022</b>. Likewise, the inboard drivers <b>15054</b> are oriented to sequentially or reciprocatingly engage a corresponding plurality of inboard activation cavities <b>15028</b> provided in the channel pan <b>15022</b>. The inboard activation cavities <b>15028</b> are arranged in a staggered relationship relative to the adjacent outboard activation cavities <b>15026</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 179</figref>. As can also be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 179 and 181</figref>, in at least one embodiment, the sled assembly <b>15030</b> further includes distal wedge segments <b>15060</b> and intermediate wedge segments <b>15062</b> located on each side of the bore <b>15036</b> to engage the pushers <b>15088</b> as the sled assembly <b>15030</b> is driven distally in the distal direction “DD”. As indicated above, the sled assembly <b>15030</b> is threadedly received on a threaded portion <b>15132</b> of a drive shaft <b>15130</b> that is rotatably supported within the end effector <b>15012</b>. In various embodiments, for example, the drive shaft <b>15130</b> has a distal end <b>15134</b> that is supported in a distal bearing <b>15136</b> mounted in the surgical end effector <b>15012</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 178 and 179</figref>.

0410In various embodiments, the surgical end effector <b>15012</b> is coupled to a tool mounting portion <b>15200</b> by an elongated shaft assembly <b>15108</b>. In at least one embodiment, the tool mounting portion <b>15200</b> operably supports a transmission arrangement generally designated as <b>15204</b> that is configured to receive rotary output motions from the robotic system. The elongated shaft assembly <b>15108</b> includes an outer closure tube <b>15110</b> that is rotatable and axially movable on a spine member <b>15120</b> that is rigidly coupled to a tool mounting plate <b>15201</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>15200</b>. The spine member <b>15120</b> also has a distal end <b>15122</b> that is coupled to the elongated channel portion <b>15020</b> of the surgical end effector <b>15012</b>.

0411In use, it may be desirable to rotate the surgical end effector <b>15012</b> about a longitudinal tool axis LT-LT defined by the elongated shaft assembly <b>15008</b>. In various embodiments, the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> has a proximal end <b>15112</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>15201</b> of the tool drive portion <b>15200</b> by a forward support cradle <b>15203</b>. The proximal end <b>15112</b> of the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> is configured to operably interface with a rotation transmission portion <b>15206</b> of the transmission arrangement <b>15204</b>. In various embodiments, the proximal end <b>15112</b> of the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> is also supported on a closure sled <b>15140</b> that is also movably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>15201</b>. A closure tube gear segment <b>15114</b> is formed on the proximal end <b>15112</b> of the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> for meshing engagement with a rotation drive assembly <b>15150</b> of the rotation transmission <b>15206</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 176</figref>, the rotation drive assembly <b>15150</b>, in at least one embodiment, comprises a rotation drive gear <b>15152</b> that is coupled to a corresponding first one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>15201</b> when the tool drive portion <b>15200</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. The rotation drive assembly <b>15150</b> further comprises a rotary driven gear <b>15154</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>15201</b> in meshing engagement with the closure tube gear segment <b>15114</b> and the rotation drive gear <b>15152</b>. Application of a first rotary control motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool holder <b>11270</b> and the adapter <b>11240</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>15152</b>. Rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>15152</b> ultimately results in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>15108</b> (and the end effector <b>15012</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT (represented by arrow “R” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 176</figref>).

0412Closure of the anvil <b>15070</b> relative to the surgical staple cartridge <b>15080</b> is accomplished by axially moving the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> in the distal direction “DD”. Such axial movement of the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> may be accomplished by a closure transmission portion <b>15144</b> of the transmission arrangement <b>15204</b>. As indicated above, in various embodiments, the proximal end <b>15112</b> of the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> is supported by the closure sled <b>15140</b> which enables the proximal end <b>15112</b> to rotate relative thereto, yet travel axially with the closure sled <b>15140</b>. In particular, as can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 176</figref>, the closure sled <b>15140</b> has an upstanding tab <b>15141</b> that extends into a radial groove <b>15115</b> in the proximal end portion <b>15112</b> of the outer closure tube <b>15110</b>. In addition, as was described above, the closure sled <b>15140</b> is slidably mounted to the tool mounting plate <b>15201</b>. In various embodiments, the closure sled <b>15140</b> has an upstanding portion <b>15142</b> that has a closure rack gear <b>15143</b> formed thereon. The closure rack gear <b>15143</b> is configured for driving engagement with the closure transmission <b>15144</b>.

0413In various forms, the closure transmission <b>15144</b> includes a closure spur gear <b>15145</b> that is coupled to a corresponding second one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>15201</b>. Thus, application of a second rotary control motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool holder <b>11270</b> and the adapter <b>11240</b> to the corresponding second driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the closure spur gear <b>15145</b> when the interface <b>11230</b> is coupled to the tool mounting portion <b>15200</b>. The closure transmission <b>15144</b> further includes a driven closure gear set <b>15146</b> that is supported in meshing engagement with the closure spur gear <b>15145</b> and the closure rack gear <b>15143</b>. Thus, application of a second rotary control motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool holder <b>11270</b> and the adapter <b>11240</b> to the corresponding second driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the closure spur gear <b>15145</b> and ultimately drive the closure sled <b>15140</b> and the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> axially. The axial direction in which the closure tube <b>15110</b> moves ultimately depends upon the direction in which the second driven element <b>11304</b> is rotated. For example, in response to one rotary closure motion received from the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the closure sled <b>15140</b> will be driven in the distal direction “DD” and ultimately the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> will be driven in the distal direction as well. The outer closure tube <b>15110</b> has an opening <b>15117</b> in the distal end <b>15116</b> that is configured for engagement with a tab <b>15071</b> on the anvil <b>15070</b> in the manners described above. As the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> is driven distally, the proximal end <b>15116</b> of the closure tube <b>15110</b> will contact the anvil <b>15070</b> and pivot it closed. Upon application of an “opening” rotary motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the closure sled <b>15140</b> and outer closure tube <b>15110</b> will be driven in the proximal direction “PD” and pivot the anvil <b>15070</b> to the open position in the manners described above.

0414In at least one embodiment, the drive shaft <b>15130</b> has a proximal end <b>15137</b> that has a proximal shaft gear <b>15138</b> attached thereto. The proximal shaft gear <b>15138</b> is supported in meshing engagement with a distal drive gear <b>15162</b> attached to a rotary drive bar <b>15160</b> that is rotatably supported with spine member <b>15120</b>. Rotation of the rotary drive bar <b>15160</b> and ultimately rotary drive shaft <b>15130</b> is controlled by a rotary knife transmission <b>15207</b> which comprises a portion of the transmission arrangement <b>15204</b> supported on the tool mounting plate <b>15210</b>. In various embodiments, the rotary knife transmission <b>15207</b> comprises a rotary knife drive system <b>15170</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>15201</b>. In various embodiments, the knife drive system <b>15170</b> includes a rotary drive gear <b>15172</b> that is coupled to a corresponding third one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side of the tool mounting plate <b>15201</b> when the tool drive portion <b>15200</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. The knife drive system <b>15170</b> further comprises a first rotary driven gear <b>15174</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>15201</b> in meshing engagement with a second rotary driven gear <b>15176</b> and the rotary drive gear <b>15172</b>. The second rotary driven gear <b>15176</b> is coupled to a proximal end portion <b>15164</b> of the rotary drive bar <b>15160</b>.

0415Rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>15172</b> in a first rotary direction will result in the rotation of the rotary drive bar <b>15160</b> and rotary drive shaft <b>15130</b> in a first direction. Conversely, rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>15172</b> in a second rotary direction (opposite to the first rotary direction) will cause the rotary drive bar <b>15160</b> and rotary drive shaft <b>15130</b> to rotate in a second direction.

0416One method of operating the surgical tool <b>15000</b> will now be described. The tool drive <b>15200</b> is operably coupled to the interface <b>11240</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>. The controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> is operated to locate the tissue to be cut and stapled between the open anvil <b>15070</b> and the surgical staple cartridge <b>15080</b>. Once the surgical end effector <b>15012</b> has been positioned by the robot system <b>11000</b> such that the target tissue is located between the anvil <b>15070</b> and the surgical staple cartridge <b>15080</b>, the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> may be activated to apply the second rotary output motion to the second driven element <b>11304</b> coupled to the closure spur gear <b>15145</b> to drive the closure sled <b>15140</b> and the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> axially in the distal direction to pivot the anvil <b>15070</b> closed in the manner described above. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> determines that the anvil <b>15070</b> has been closed by, for example, sensors in the surgical end effector <b>15012</b> and/or the tool drive portion <b>15200</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> system may provide the surgeon with an indication that signifies the closure of the anvil. Such indication may be, for example, in the form of a light and/or audible sound, tactile feedback on the control members, etc. Then the surgeon may initiate the firing process. In alternative embodiments, however, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may automatically commence the firing process.

0417To commence the firing process, the robotic controller applies a third rotary output motion to the third driven disc or element <b>11304</b> coupled to the rotary drive gear <b>15172</b>. Rotation of the rotary drive gear <b>15172</b> results in the rotation of the rotary drive bar <b>15160</b> and rotary drive shaft <b>15130</b> in the manner described above. Firing and formation of the surgical staples <b>15098</b> can be best understood from reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 177, 179, and 180</figref>. As the sled assembly <b>15030</b> is driven in the distal direction “DD” through the surgical staple cartridge <b>15080</b>, the distal wedge segments <b>15060</b> first contact the staple pushers <b>15088</b> and start to move them toward the closed anvil <b>15070</b>. As the sled assembly <b>15030</b> continues to move distally, the outboard drivers <b>15052</b> will drop into the corresponding activation cavity <b>15026</b> in the channel pan <b>15022</b>. The opposite end of each outboard driver <b>15052</b> will then contact the corresponding outboard pusher <b>15088</b> that has moved up the distal and intermediate wedge segments <b>15060</b>, <b>15062</b>. Further distal movement of the sled assembly <b>15030</b> causes the outboard drivers <b>15052</b> to rotate and drive the corresponding pushers <b>15088</b> toward the anvil <b>15070</b> to cause the staples <b>15098</b> supported thereon to be formed as they are driven into the anvil <b>15070</b>. It will be understood that as the sled assembly <b>15030</b> moves distally, the knife blade <b>15040</b> cuts through the tissue that is clamped between the anvil and the staple cartridge. Because the inboard drivers <b>15054</b> and outboard drivers <b>15052</b> are attached to the same shaft <b>15056</b> and the inboard drivers <b>15054</b> are radially offset from the outboard drivers <b>15052</b> on the shaft <b>15056</b>, as the outboard drivers <b>15052</b> are driving their corresponding pushers <b>15088</b> toward the anvil <b>15070</b>, the inboard drivers <b>15054</b> drop into their next corresponding activation cavity <b>15028</b> to cause them to rotatably or reciprocatingly drive the corresponding inboard pushers <b>15088</b> towards the closed anvil <b>15070</b> in the same manner. Thus, the laterally corresponding outboard staples <b>15098</b> on each side of the centrally disposed slot <b>15084</b> are simultaneously formed together and the laterally corresponding inboard staples <b>15098</b> on each side of the slot <b>15084</b> are simultaneously formed together as the sled assembly <b>15030</b> is driven distally. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> determines that the sled assembly <b>15030</b> has reached its distal most position—either through sensors or through monitoring the amount of rotary input applied to the drive shaft <b>15130</b> and/or the rotary drive bar <b>15160</b>, the controller <b>11001</b> may then apply a third rotary output motion to the drive shaft <b>15130</b> to rotate the drive shaft <b>15130</b> in an opposite direction to retract the sled assembly <b>15030</b> back to its starting position. Once the sled assembly <b>15030</b> has been retracted to the starting position (as signaled by sensors in the end effector <b>15012</b> and/or the tool drive portion <b>15200</b>), the application of the second rotary motion to the drive shaft <b>15130</b> is discontinued. Thereafter, the surgeon may manually activate the anvil opening process or it may be automatically commenced by the robotic controller <b>11001</b>. To open the anvil <b>15070</b>, the second rotary output motion is applied to the closure spur gear <b>15145</b> to drive the closure sled <b>15140</b> and the outer closure tube <b>15110</b> axially in the proximal direction. As the closure tube <b>15110</b> moves proximally, the opening <b>15117</b> in the distal end <b>15116</b> of the closure tube <b>15110</b> contacts the tab <b>15071</b> on the anvil <b>15070</b> to pivot the anvil <b>15070</b> to the open position. A spring may also be employed to bias the anvil <b>15070</b> to the open position when the closure tube <b>15116</b> has been returned to the starting position. Again, sensors in the surgical end effector <b>15012</b> and/or the tool mounting portion <b>15200</b> may provide the robotic controller <b>11001</b> with a signal indicating that the anvil <b>15070</b> is now open. Thereafter, the surgical end effector <b>15012</b> may be withdrawn from the surgical site.

0418<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 183-188</figref> diagrammatically depict the sequential firing of staples in a surgical tool assembly <b>15000</b>′ that is substantially similar to the surgical tool assembly <b>15000</b> described above. In this embodiment, the inboard and outboard drivers <b>15052</b>′, <b>15054</b>′ have a cam-like shape with a cam surface <b>15053</b> and an actuator protrusion <b>15055</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 183-189</figref>. The drivers <b>15052</b>′, <b>15054</b>′ are journaled on the same shaft <b>15056</b>′ that is rotatably supported by the sled assembly <b>15030</b>′. In this embodiment, the sled assembly <b>15030</b>′ has distal wedge segments <b>15060</b>′ for engaging the pushers <b>15088</b>.

0419<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 183</figref> illustrates an initial position of two inboard or outboard drivers <b>15052</b>′, <b>15054</b>′ as the sled assembly <b>15030</b>′ is driven in the distal direction “DD”. As can be seen in that Figure, the pusher <b>15088</b><i>a </i>has advanced up the wedge segment <b>15060</b>′ and has contacted the driver <b>15052</b>′, <b>15054</b>′. Further travel of the sled assembly <b>15030</b>′ in the distal direction causes the driver <b>15052</b>′, <b>15054</b>′ to pivot in the “P” direction (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 184</figref>) until the actuator portion <b>15055</b> contacts the end wall <b>15029</b><i>a </i>of the activation cavity <b>15026</b>, <b>15028</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 185</figref>. Continued advancement of the sled assembly <b>15030</b>′ in the distal direction “DD” causes the driver <b>15052</b>′, <b>15054</b>′ to rotate in the “D” direction as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 186</figref>. As the driver <b>15052</b>′, <b>15054</b>′ rotates, the pusher <b>15088</b><i>a </i>rides up the cam surface <b>15053</b> to the final vertical position shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 187</figref>. When the pusher <b>15088</b><i>a </i>reaches the final vertical position shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 187 and 188</figref>, the staple (not shown) supported thereon has been driven into the staple forming surface of the anvil to form the staple.

0420<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 190-195</figref> illustrate a surgical end effector <b>15312</b> that may be employed for example, in connection with the tool mounting portion <b>11300</b> and shaft <b>12008</b> described in detail above. In various forms, the surgical end effector <b>15312</b> includes an elongated channel <b>15322</b> that is constructed as described above for supporting a surgical staple cartridge <b>15330</b> therein. The surgical staple cartridge <b>15330</b> comprises a body portion <b>15332</b> that includes a centrally disposed slot <b>15334</b> for accommodating an upstanding support portion <b>15386</b> of a sled assembly <b>15380</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 190-192</figref>. The surgical staple cartridge body portion <b>15332</b> further includes a plurality of cavities <b>15336</b> for movably supporting staple-supporting pushers <b>15350</b> therein. The cavities <b>15336</b> may be arranged in spaced longitudinally extending rows <b>15340</b>, <b>15342</b>, <b>15344</b>, <b>15346</b>. The rows <b>15340</b>, <b>15342</b> are located on one lateral side of the longitudinal slot <b>15334</b> and the rows <b>15344</b>, <b>15346</b> are located on the other side of longitudinal slot <b>15334</b>. In at least one embodiment, the pushers <b>15350</b> are configured to support two surgical staples <b>15352</b> thereon. In particular, each pusher <b>15350</b> located on one side of the elongated slot <b>15334</b> supports one staple <b>15352</b> in row <b>15340</b> and one staple <b>15352</b> in row <b>15342</b> in a staggered orientation. Likewise, each pusher <b>15350</b> located on the other side of the elongated slot <b>15334</b> supports one surgical staple <b>15352</b> in row <b>15344</b> and another surgical staple <b>15352</b> in row <b>15346</b> in a staggered orientation. Thus, every pusher <b>15350</b> supports two surgical staples <b>15352</b>.

0421As can be further seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 190, 191</figref>, the surgical staple cartridge <b>15330</b> includes a plurality of rotary drivers <b>15360</b>. More particularly, the rotary drivers <b>15360</b> on one side of the elongated slot <b>15334</b> are arranged in a single line <b>15370</b> and correspond to the pushers <b>15350</b> in lines <b>15340</b>, <b>15342</b>. In addition, the rotary drivers <b>15360</b> on the other side of the elongated slot <b>15334</b> are arranged in a single line <b>15372</b> and correspond to the pushers <b>15350</b> in lines <b>15344</b>, <b>15346</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 190</figref>, each rotary driver <b>15360</b> is rotatably supported within the staple cartridge body <b>15332</b>. More particularly, each rotary driver <b>15360</b> is rotatably received on a corresponding driver shaft <b>15362</b>. Each driver <b>15360</b> has an arcuate ramp portion <b>15364</b> formed thereon that is configured to engage an arcuate lower surface <b>15354</b> formed on each pusher <b>15350</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 195</figref>. In addition, each driver <b>15360</b> has a lower support portion <b>15366</b> extend therefrom to slidably support the pusher <b>15360</b> on the channel <b>15322</b>. Each driver <b>15360</b> has a downwardly extending actuation rod <b>15368</b> that is configured for engagement with a sled assembly <b>15380</b>.

0422As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 192</figref>, in at least one embodiment, the sled assembly <b>15380</b> includes a base portion <b>15382</b> that has a foot portion <b>15384</b> that is sized to be slidably received in a slot <b>15333</b> in the channel <b>15322</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 190</figref>. The sled assembly <b>15380</b> includes an upstanding support portion <b>15386</b> that supports a tissue cutting blade or tissue cutting instrument <b>15388</b>. The upstanding support portion <b>15386</b> terminates in a top portion <b>15390</b> that has a pair of laterally extending retaining fins <b>15392</b> protruding therefrom. The fins <b>15392</b> are positioned to be received within corresponding slots (not shown) in the anvil (not shown). As with the above-described embodiments, the fins <b>15392</b> and the foot portion <b>15384</b> serve to retain the anvil (not shown) in a desired spaced closed position as the sled assembly <b>15380</b> is driven distally through the tissue clamped within the surgical end effector <b>15312</b>. The upstanding support portion <b>15386</b> is configured for attachment to a knife bar <b>12200</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 111</figref>). The sled assembly <b>15380</b> further has a horizontally-extending actuator plate <b>15394</b> that is shaped for actuating engagement with each of the actuation rods <b>15368</b> on the pushers <b>15360</b>.

0423Operation of the surgical end effector <b>15312</b> will now be explained with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 190 and 191</figref>. As the sled assembly <b>15380</b> is driven in the distal direction “DD” through the staple cartridge <b>15330</b>, the actuator plate <b>15394</b> sequentially contacts the actuation rods <b>15368</b> on the pushers <b>15360</b>. As the sled assembly <b>15380</b> continues to move distally, the actuator plate <b>15394</b> sequentially contacts the actuator rods <b>15368</b> of the drivers <b>15360</b> on each side of the elongated slot <b>15334</b>. Such action causes the drivers <b>15360</b> to rotate from a first unactuated position to an actuated portion wherein the pushers <b>15350</b> are driven towards the closed anvil. As the pushers <b>15350</b> are driven toward the anvil, the surgical staples <b>15352</b> thereon are driven into forming contact with the underside of the anvil. Once the robotic system <b>11000</b> determines that the sled assembly <b>15080</b> has reached its distal most position through sensors or other means, the control system of the robotic system <b>11000</b> may then retract the knife bar and sled assembly <b>15380</b> back to the starting position. Thereafter, the robotic control system may then activate the procedure for returning the anvil to the open position to release the stapled tissue.

0424<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 196-200</figref> depict one form of an automated reloading system embodiment of the present invention, generally designated as <b>15500</b>. In one form, the automated reloading system <b>15500</b> is configured to replace a “spent” surgical end effector component in a manipulatable surgical tool portion of a robotic surgical system with a “new” surgical end effector component. As used herein, the term “surgical end effector component” may comprise, for example, a surgical staple cartridge, a disposable loading unit or other end effector components that, when used, are spent and must be replaced with a new component. Furthermore, the term “spent” means that the end effector component has been activated and is no longer useable for its intended purpose in its present state. For example, in the context of a surgical staple cartridge or disposable loading unit, the term “spent” means that at least some of the unformed staples that were previously supported therein have been “fired” therefrom. As used herein, the term “new” surgical end effector component refers to an end effector component that is in condition for its intended use. In the context of a surgical staple cartridge or disposable loading unit, for example, the term “new” refers to such a component that has unformed staples therein and which is otherwise ready for use.

0425In various embodiments, the automated reloading system <b>15500</b> includes a base portion <b>15502</b> that may be strategically located within a work envelope <b>11109</b> of a robotic arm cart <b>11100</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 97</figref>) of a robotic system <b>11000</b>. As used herein, the term “manipulatable surgical tool portion” collectively refers to a surgical tool of the various types disclosed herein and other forms of surgical robotically-actuated tools that are operably attached to, for example, a robotic arm cart <b>11100</b> or similar device that is configured to automatically manipulate and actuate the surgical tool. The term “work envelope” as used herein refers to the range of movement of the manipulatable surgical tool portion of the robotic system. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 97</figref> generally depicts an area that may comprise a work envelope of the robotic arm cart <b>11100</b>. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the shape and size of the work envelope depicted therein is merely illustrative. The ultimate size, shape and location of a work envelope will ultimately depend upon the construction, range of travel limitations, and location of the manipulatable surgical tool portion. Thus, the term “work envelope” as used herein is intended to cover a variety of different sizes and shapes of work envelopes and should not be limited to the specific size and shape of the sample work envelope depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 97</figref>.

0426As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 196</figref>, the base portion <b>15502</b> includes a new component support section or arrangement <b>15510</b> that is configured to operably support at least one new surgical end effector component in a “loading orientation”. As used herein, the term “loading orientation” means that the new end effector component is supported in such away so as to permit the corresponding component support portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion to be brought into loading engagement with (i.e., operably seated or operably attached to) the new end effector component (or the new end effector component to be brought into loading engagement with the corresponding component support portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion) without human intervention beyond that which may be necessary to actuate the robotic system. As will be further appreciated as the present Detailed Description proceeds, in at least one embodiment, the preparation nurse will load the new component support section before the surgery with the appropriate length and color cartridges (some surgical staple cartridges may support certain sizes of staples the size of which may be indicated by the color of the cartridge body) required for completing the surgical procedure. However, no direct human interaction is necessary during the surgery to reload the robotic endocutter. In one form, the surgical end effector component comprises a staple cartridge <b>12034</b> that is configured to be operably seated within a component support portion (elongated channel) of any of the various other end effector arrangements described above. For explanation purposes, new (unused) cartridges will be designated as “<b>12034</b><i>a</i>” and spent cartridges will be designated as “<b>12034</b><i>b</i>”. The Figures depict cartridges <b>12034</b><i>a</i>, <b>12034</b><i>b </i>designed for use with a surgical end effector <b>12012</b> that includes a channel <b>12022</b> and an anvil <b>12024</b>, the construction and operation of which were discussed in detail above. Cartridges <b>12034</b><i>a</i>, <b>12034</b><i>b </i>are identical to cartridges <b>12034</b> described above. In various embodiments, the cartridges <b>12034</b><i>a</i>, <b>12034</b><i>b </i>are configured to be snappingly retained (i.e., loading engagement) within the channel <b>12022</b> of a surgical end effector <b>12012</b>. As the present Detailed Description proceeds, however, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the unique and novel features of the automated cartridge reloading system <b>15500</b> may be effectively employed in connection with the automated removal and installation of other cartridge arrangements without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

0427In the depicted embodiment, the term “loading orientation” means that the distal tip portion <b>12035</b><i>a </i>of the a new surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b><i>a </i>is inserted into a corresponding support cavity <b>15512</b> in the new cartridge support section <b>15510</b> such that the proximal end portion <b>12037</b><i>a </i>of the new surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b><i>a </i>is located in a convenient orientation for enabling the arm cart <b>11100</b> to manipulate the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> into a position wherein the new cartridge <b>12034</b><i>a </i>may be automatically loaded into the channel <b>12022</b> of the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>. In various embodiments, the base <b>15502</b> includes at least one sensor <b>15504</b> which communicates with the control system <b>11003</b> of the robotic controller <b>11001</b> to provide the control system <b>11003</b> with the location of the base <b>15502</b> and/or the reload length and color doe each staged or new cartridge <b>12034</b><i>a. </i>

0428As can also be seen in the Figures, the base <b>15502</b> further includes a collection receptacle <b>15520</b> that is configured to collect spent cartridges <b>12034</b><i>b </i>that have been removed or disengaged from the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> that is operably attached to the robotic system <b>11000</b>. In addition, in one form, the automated reloading system <b>15500</b> includes an extraction system <b>15530</b> for automatically removing the spent end effector component from the corresponding support portion of the end effector or manipulatable surgical tool portion without specific human intervention beyond that which may be necessary to activate the robotic system. In various embodiments, the extraction system <b>15530</b> includes an extraction hook member <b>15532</b>. In one form, for example, the extraction hook member <b>15532</b> is rigidly supported on the base portion <b>15502</b>. In one embodiment, the extraction hook member has at least one hook <b>5534</b> formed thereon that is configured to hookingly engage the distal end <b>12035</b> of a spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>when it is supported in the elongated channel <b>12022</b> of the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>. In various forms, the extraction hook member <b>15532</b> is conveniently located within a portion of the collection receptacle <b>15520</b> such that when the spent end effector component (cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b</i>) is brought into extractive engagement with the extraction hook member <b>15532</b>, the spent end effector component (cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b</i>) is dislodged from the corresponding component support portion (elongated channel <b>12022</b>), and falls into the collection receptacle <b>15020</b>. Thus, to use this embodiment, the manipulatable surgical tool portion manipulates the end effector attached thereto to bring the distal end <b>12035</b> of the spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>therein into hooking engagement with the hook <b>15534</b> and then moves the end effector in such a way to dislodge the spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>from the elongated channel <b>12022</b>.

0429In other arrangements, the extraction hook member <b>15532</b> comprises a rotatable wheel configuration that has a pair of diametrically-opposed hooks <b>15334</b> protruding therefrom. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 196 and 199</figref>. The extraction hook member <b>15532</b> is rotatably supported within the collection receptacle <b>15520</b> and is coupled to an extraction motor <b>15540</b> that is controlled by the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system. This form of the automated reloading system <b>15500</b> may be used as follows. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 198</figref> illustrates the introduction of the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> that is operably attached to the manipulatable surgical tool portion <b>11200</b>. As can be seen in that Figure, the arm cart <b>11100</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> locates the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> in the shown position wherein the hook end <b>15534</b> of the extraction member <b>15532</b> hookingly engages the distal end <b>12035</b> of the spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>in the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>. The anvil <b>12024</b> of the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> is in the open position. After the distal end <b>12035</b> of the spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>is engaged with the hook end <b>15532</b>, the extraction motor <b>15540</b> is actuated to rotate the extraction wheel <b>15532</b> to disengage the spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>from the channel <b>12022</b>. To assist with the disengagement of the spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>from the channel <b>12022</b> (or if the extraction member <b>15530</b> is stationary), the robotic system <b>11000</b> may move the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> in an upward direction (arrow “U” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 199</figref>). As the spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>is dislodged from the channel <b>12022</b>, the spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>falls into the collection receptacle <b>15520</b>. Once the spent cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>has been removed from the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>, the robotic system <b>11000</b> moves the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> to the position shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 200</figref>.

0430In various embodiments, a sensor arrangement <b>15533</b> is located adjacent to the extraction member <b>15532</b> that is in communication with the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>. The sensor arrangement <b>15533</b> may comprise a sensor that is configured to sense the presence of the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> and, more particularly the tip <b>12035</b><i>b </i>of the spent surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>thereof as the distal tip portion <b>12035</b><i>b </i>is brought into engagement with the extraction member <b>15532</b>. In some embodiments, the sensor arrangement <b>15533</b> may comprise, for example, a light curtain arrangement. However, other forms of proximity sensors may be employed. In such arrangement, when the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> with the spent surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>is brought into extractive engagement with the extraction member <b>15532</b>, the sensor senses the distal tip <b>12035</b><i>b </i>of the surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>(e.g., the light curtain is broken). When the extraction member <b>15532</b> spins and pops the surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>loose and it falls into the collection receptacle <b>15520</b>, the light curtain is again unbroken. Because the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> was not moved during this procedure, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> is assured that the spent surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>has been removed therefrom. Other sensor arrangements may also be successfully employed to provide the robotic controller <b>11001</b> with an indication that the spent surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b><i>b </i>has been removed from the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>.

0431As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 200</figref>, the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> is positioned to grasp a new surgical staple cartridge <b>12034</b><i>a </i>between the channel <b>12022</b> and the anvil <b>12024</b>. More specifically, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 197 and 200</figref>, each cavity <b>11512</b> has a corresponding upstanding pressure pad <b>15514</b> associated with it. The surgical end effector <b>12012</b> is located such that the pressure pad <b>15514</b> is located between the new cartridge <b>12034</b><i>a </i>and the anvil <b>12024</b>. Once in that position, the robotic system <b>11000</b> closes the anvil <b>12024</b> onto the pressure pad <b>15514</b> which serves to push the new cartridge <b>12034</b><i>a </i>into snapping engagement with the channel <b>12022</b> of the surgical end effector <b>12012</b>. Once the new cartridge <b>12034</b><i>a </i>has been snapped into position within the elongated channel <b>12022</b>, the robotic system <b>11000</b> then withdraws the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> from the automated cartridge reloading system <b>15500</b> for use in connection with performing another surgical procedure.

0432<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 201-205</figref> depict another automated reloading system <b>15600</b> that may be used to remove a spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> from a manipulatable surgical tool arrangement <b>13600</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 148-161</figref>) that is operably attached to an arm cart <b>11100</b> or other portion of a robotic system <b>11000</b> and reload a new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> therein. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 201 and 202</figref>, one form of the automated reloading system <b>15600</b> includes a housing <b>15610</b> that has a movable support assembly in the form of a rotary carrousel top plate <b>15620</b> supported thereon which cooperates with the housing <b>15610</b> to form a hollow enclosed area <b>15612</b>. The automated reloading system <b>15600</b> is configured to be operably supported within the work envelop of the manipulatable surgical tool portion of a robotic system as was described above. In various embodiments, the rotary carrousel plate <b>15620</b> has a plurality of holes <b>15622</b> for supporting a plurality of orientation tubes <b>15660</b> therein. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 202 and 203</figref>, the rotary carrousel plate <b>15620</b> is affixed to a spindle shaft <b>15624</b>. The spindle shaft <b>15624</b> is centrally disposed within the enclosed area <b>15612</b> and has a spindle gear <b>15626</b> attached thereto. The spindle gear <b>15626</b> is in meshing engagement with a carrousel drive gear <b>15628</b> that is coupled to a carrousel drive motor <b>15630</b> that is in operative communication with the robotic controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>.

0433Various embodiments of the automated reloading system <b>15600</b> may also include a carrousel locking assembly, generally designated as <b>15640</b>. In various forms, the carrousel locking assembly <b>15640</b> includes a cam disc <b>15642</b> that is affixed to the spindle shaft <b>15624</b>. The spindle gear <b>15626</b> may be attached to the underside of the cam disc <b>15642</b> and the cam disc <b>15642</b> may be keyed onto the spindle shaft <b>15624</b>. In alternative arrangements, the spindle gear <b>15626</b> and the cam disc <b>15642</b> may be independently non-rotatably affixed to the spindle shaft <b>15624</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 202 and 203</figref>, a plurality of notches <b>15644</b> are spaced around the perimeter of the cam disc <b>15642</b>. A locking arm <b>15648</b> is pivotally mounted within the housing <b>15610</b> and is biased into engagement with the perimeter of the cam disc <b>15642</b> by a locking spring <b>15649</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 201</figref>, the outer perimeter of the cam disc <b>15642</b> is rounded to facilitate rotation of the cam disc <b>15642</b> relative to the locking arm <b>15648</b>. The edges of each notch <b>15644</b> are also rounded such that when the cam disc <b>15642</b> is rotated, the locking arm <b>15648</b> is cammed out of engagement with the notches <b>15644</b> by the perimeter of the cam disc <b>15642</b>.

0434Various forms of the automated reloading system <b>15600</b> are configured to support a portable/replaceable tray assembly <b>15650</b> that is configured to support a plurality of disposable loading units <b>13612</b> in individual orientation tubes <b>15660</b>. More specifically and with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 202 and 203</figref>, the replaceable tray assembly <b>15650</b> comprises a tray <b>15652</b> that has a centrally-disposed locator spindle <b>15654</b> protruding from the underside thereof. The locator spindle <b>15654</b> is sized to be received within a hollow end <b>15625</b> of spindle shaft <b>15624</b>. The tray <b>15652</b> has a plurality of holes <b>15656</b> therein that are configured to support an orientation tube <b>15660</b> therein. Each orientation tube <b>15660</b> is oriented within a corresponding hole <b>15656</b> in the replaceable tray assembly <b>15650</b> in a desired orientation by a locating fin <b>15666</b> on the orientation tube <b>15660</b> that is designed to be received within a corresponding locating slot <b>15658</b> in the tray assembly <b>15650</b>. In at least one embodiment, the locating fin <b>15666</b> has a substantially V-shaped cross-sectional shape that is sized to fit within a V-shaped locating slot <b>15658</b>. Such arrangement serves to orient the orientation tube <b>15660</b> in a desired starting position while enabling it to rotate within the hole <b>15656</b> when a rotary motion is applied thereto. That is, when a rotary motion is applied to the orientation tube <b>15660</b> the V-shaped locating fin <b>15666</b> will pop out of its corresponding locating slot enabling the tube <b>15660</b> to rotate relative to the tray <b>15652</b> as will be discussed in further detail below. As can also be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 201-203</figref>, the replaceable tray <b>15652</b> may be provided with one or more handle portions <b>15653</b> to facilitate transport of the tray assembly <b>15652</b> when loaded with orientation tubes <b>15660</b>.

0435As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 205</figref>, each orientation tube <b>15660</b> comprises a body portion <b>15662</b> that has a flanged open end <b>15664</b>. The body portion <b>15662</b> defines a cavity <b>15668</b> that is sized to receive a portion of a disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> therein. To properly orient the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> within the orientation tube <b>15660</b>, the cavity <b>15668</b> has a flat locating surface <b>15670</b> formed therein. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 205</figref>, the flat locating surface <b>15670</b> is configured to facilitate the insertion of the disposable loading unit into the cavity <b>15668</b> in a desired or predetermined non-rotatable orientation. In addition, the end <b>15669</b> of the cavity <b>15668</b> may include a foam or cushion material <b>15672</b> that is designed to cushion the distal end of the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> within the cavity <b>15668</b>. Also, the length of the locating surface may cooperate with a sliding support member <b>13689</b> of the axial drive assembly <b>13680</b> of the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> to further locate the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> at a desired position within the orientation tube <b>15660</b>.

0436The orientation tubes <b>15660</b> may be fabricated from Nylon, polycarbonate, polyethylene, liquid crystal polymer, 6061 or 7075 aluminum, titanium, 300 or 400 series stainless steel, coated or painted steel, plated steel, etc. and, when loaded in the replaceable tray <b>15662</b> and the locator spindle <b>15654</b> is inserted into the hollow end <b>15625</b> of spindle shaft <b>15624</b>, the orientation tubes <b>15660</b> extend through corresponding holes <b>15662</b> in the carrousel top plate <b>15620</b>. Each replaceable tray <b>15662</b> is equipped with a location sensor <b>15663</b> that communicates with the control system <b>11003</b> of the controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>. The sensor <b>15663</b> serves to identify the location of the reload system, and the number, length, color and fired status of each reload housed in the tray. In addition, an optical sensor or sensors <b>15665</b> that communicate with the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may be employed to sense the type/size/length of disposable loading units that are loaded within the tray <b>15662</b>.

0437Various embodiments of the automated reloading system <b>15600</b> further include a drive assembly <b>15680</b> for applying a rotary motion to the orientation tube <b>15660</b> holding the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> to be attached to the shaft <b>13700</b> of the surgical tool <b>13600</b> (collectively the “manipulatable surgical tool portion”) that is operably coupled to the robotic system. The drive assembly <b>15680</b> includes a support yoke <b>15682</b> that is attached to the locking arm <b>15648</b>. Thus, the support yoke <b>15682</b> pivots with the locking arm <b>15648</b>. The support yoke <b>15682</b> rotatably supports a tube idler wheel <b>15684</b> and a tube drive wheel <b>15686</b> that is driven by a tube motor <b>15688</b> attached thereto. Tube motor <b>15688</b> communicates with the control system <b>11003</b> and is controlled thereby. The tube idler wheel <b>15684</b> and tube drive wheel <b>15686</b> are fabricated from, for example, natural rubber, sanoprene, isoplast, etc. such that the outer surfaces thereof create sufficient amount of friction to result in the rotation of an orientation tube <b>15660</b> in contact therewith upon activation of the tube motor <b>15688</b>. The idler wheel <b>15684</b> and tube drive wheel <b>15686</b> are oriented relative to each other to create a cradle area <b>15687</b> therebetween for receiving an orientation tube <b>15060</b> in driving engagement therein.

0438In use, one or more of the orientation tubes <b>15660</b> loaded in the automated reloading system <b>15600</b> are left empty, while the other orientation tubes <b>15660</b> may operably support a corresponding new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> therein. As will be discussed in further detail below, the empty orientation tubes <b>15660</b> are employed to receive a spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> therein.

0439The automated reloading system <b>15600</b> may be employed as follows after the system <b>15600</b> is located within the work envelope of the manipulatable surgical tool portion of a robotic system. If the manipulatable surgical tool portion has a spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> operably coupled thereto, one of the orientation tubes <b>15660</b> that are supported on the replaceable tray <b>15662</b> is left empty to receive the spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> therein. If, however, the manipulatable surgical tool portion does not have a disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> operably coupled thereto, each of the orientation tubes <b>15660</b> may be provided with a properly oriented new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>.

0440As described hereinabove, the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> employs a rotary “bayonet-type” coupling arrangement for operably coupling the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> to a corresponding portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion. That is, to attach a disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> to the corresponding portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion (<b>13700</b>—see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 154,155</figref>), a rotary installation motion must be applied to the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> and/or the corresponding portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion when those components have been moved into loading engagement with each other. Such installation motions are collectively referred to herein as “loading motions”. Likewise, to decouple a spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> from the corresponding portion of the manipulatable surgical tool, a rotary decoupling motion must be applied to the spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> and/or the corresponding portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion while simultaneously moving the spent disposable loading unit and the corresponding portion of the manipulatable surgical tool away from each other. Such decoupling motions are collectively referred to herein as “extraction motions”.

0441To commence the loading process, the robotic system <b>11000</b> is activated to manipulate the manipulatable surgical tool portion and/or the automated reloading system <b>15600</b> to bring the manipulatable surgical tool portion into loading engagement with the new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> that is supported in the orientation tube <b>15660</b> that is in driving engagement with the drive assembly <b>15680</b>. Once the robotic controller <b>11001</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 96</figref>) of the robotic control system <b>11000</b> has located the manipulatable surgical tool portion in loading engagement with the new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> activates the drive assembly <b>15680</b> to apply a rotary loading motion to the orientation tube <b>15660</b> in which the new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> is supported and/or applies another rotary loading motion to the corresponding portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion. Upon application of such rotary loading motions(s), the robotic controller <b>11001</b> also causes the corresponding portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion to be moved towards the new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> into loading engagement therewith. Once the disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> is in loading engagement with the corresponding portion of the manipulatable tool portion, the loading motions are discontinued and the manipulatable surgical tool portion may be moved away from the automated reloading system <b>15600</b> carrying with it the new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> that has been operably coupled thereto.

0442To decouple a spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> from a corresponding manipulatable surgical tool portion, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system manipulates the manipulatable surgical tool portion so as to insert the distal end of the spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> into the empty orientation tube <b>15660</b> that remains in driving engagement with the drive assembly <b>15680</b>. Thereafter, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> activates the drive assembly <b>15680</b> to apply a rotary extraction motion to the orientation tube <b>15660</b> in which the spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> is supported and/or applies a rotary extraction motion to the corresponding portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion. The robotic controller <b>11001</b> also causes the manipulatable surgical tool portion to withdraw away from the spent rotary disposable loading unit <b>13612</b>. Thereafter the rotary extraction motion(s) are discontinued.

0443After the spent disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> has been removed from the manipulatable surgical tool portion, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> may activate the carrousel drive motor <b>15630</b> to index the carrousel top plate <b>15620</b> to bring another orientation tube <b>15660</b> that supports a new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> therein into driving engagement with the drive assembly <b>15680</b>. Thereafter, the loading process may be repeated to attach the new disposable loading unit <b>13612</b> therein to the portion of the manipulatable surgical tool portion. The robotic controller <b>11001</b> may record the number of disposable loading units that have been used from a particular replaceable tray <b>15652</b>. Once the controller <b>11001</b> determines that all of the new disposable loading units <b>13612</b> have been used from that tray, the controller <b>11001</b> may provide the surgeon with a signal (visual and/or audible) indicating that the tray <b>15652</b> supporting all of the spent disposable loading units <b>13612</b> must be replaced with a new tray <b>15652</b> containing new disposable loading units <b>13612</b>.

0444<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 206-211</figref> depict another non-limiting embodiment of a surgical tool <b>16000</b> of the present invention that is well-adapted for use with a robotic system <b>11000</b> that has a tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 101</figref>) that is operatively coupled to a master controller <b>11001</b> that is operable by inputs from an operator (i.e., a surgeon). As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 206</figref>, the surgical tool <b>16000</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>16012</b> that comprises an endocutter. In at least one form, the surgical tool <b>16000</b> generally includes an elongated shaft assembly <b>16008</b> that has a proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> and a distal closure tube <b>16042</b> that are coupled together by an articulation joint <b>16100</b>. The surgical tool <b>16000</b> is operably coupled to the manipulator by a tool mounting portion, generally designated as <b>16200</b>. The surgical tool <b>16000</b> further includes an interface <b>16030</b> which may mechanically and electrically couple the tool mounting portion <b>16200</b> to the manipulator in the various manners described in detail above.

0445In at least one embodiment, the surgical tool <b>16000</b> includes a surgical end effector <b>16012</b> that comprises, among other things, at least one component <b>16024</b> that is selectively movable between first and second positions relative to at least one other component <b>16022</b> in response to various control motions applied to component <b>16024</b> as will be discussed in further detail below to perform a surgical procedure. In various embodiments, component <b>16022</b> comprises an elongated channel <b>16022</b> configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge <b>16034</b> therein and component <b>16024</b> comprises a pivotally translatable clamping member, such as an anvil <b>16024</b>. Various embodiments of the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> are configured to maintain the anvil <b>16024</b> and elongated channel <b>16022</b> at a spacing that assures effective stapling and severing of tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>16012</b>. Unless otherwise stated, the end effector <b>16012</b> is similar to the surgical end effector <b>12012</b> described above and includes a cutting instrument (not shown) and a sled (not shown). The anvil <b>16024</b> may include a tab <b>16027</b> at its proximal end that interacts with a component of the mechanical closure system (described further below) to facilitate the opening of the anvil <b>16024</b>. The elongated channel <b>16022</b> and the anvil <b>16024</b> may be made of an electrically conductive material (such as metal) so that they may serve as part of an antenna that communicates with sensor(s) in the end effector, as described above. The surgical staple cartridge <b>16034</b> could be made of a nonconductive material (such as plastic) and the sensor may be connected to or disposed in the surgical staple cartridge <b>16034</b>, as was also described above.

0446As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 206</figref>, the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> is attached to the tool mounting portion <b>16200</b> by the elongated shaft assembly <b>16008</b> according to various embodiments. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the elongated shaft assembly <b>16008</b> includes an articulation joint generally designated as <b>16100</b> that enables the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> to be selectively articulated about a first tool articulation axis AA<b>1</b>-AA<b>1</b> that is substantially transverse to a longitudinal tool axis LT-LT and a second tool articulation axis AA<b>2</b>-AA<b>2</b> that is substantially transverse to the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT as well as the first articulation axis AA<b>1</b>-AA<b>1</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 207</figref>. In various embodiments, the elongated shaft assembly <b>16008</b> includes a closure tube assembly <b>16009</b> that comprises a proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> and a distal closure tube <b>16042</b> that are pivotably linked by a pivot links <b>16044</b> and <b>16046</b>. The closure tube assembly <b>16009</b> is movably supported on a spine assembly generally designated as <b>16102</b>.

0447As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 208</figref>, the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> is pivotally linked to an intermediate closure tube joint <b>16043</b> by an upper pivot link <b>16044</b>U and a lower pivot link <b>16044</b>L such that the intermediate closure tube joint <b>16043</b> is pivotable relative to the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> about a first closure axis CA<b>1</b>-CA<b>1</b> and a second closure axis CA<b>2</b>-CA<b>2</b>. In various embodiments, the first closure axis CA<b>1</b>-CA<b>1</b> is substantially parallel to the second closure axis CA<b>2</b>-CA<b>2</b> and both closure axes CA<b>1</b>-CA<b>1</b>, CA<b>2</b>-CA<b>2</b> are substantially transverse to the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. As can be further seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 208</figref>, the intermediate closure tube joint <b>16043</b> is pivotally linked to the distal closure tube <b>16042</b> by a left pivot link <b>16046</b>L and a right pivot link <b>16046</b>R such that the intermediate closure tube joint <b>16043</b> is pivotable relative to the distal closure tube <b>16042</b> about a third closure axis CA<b>3</b>-CA<b>3</b> and a fourth closure axis CA<b>4</b>-CA<b>4</b>. In various embodiments, the third closure axis CA<b>3</b>-CA<b>3</b> is substantially parallel to the fourth closure axis CA<b>4</b>-CA<b>4</b> and both closure axes CA<b>3</b>-CA<b>3</b>, CA<b>4</b>-CA<b>4</b> are substantially transverse to the first and second closure axes CA<b>1</b>-CA<b>1</b>, CA<b>2</b>-CA<b>2</b> as well as to longitudinal tool axis LT-LT.

0448The closure tube assembly <b>16009</b> is configured to axially slide on the spine assembly <b>16102</b> in response to actuation motions applied thereto. The distal closure tube <b>16042</b> includes an opening <b>16045</b> which interfaces with the tab <b>16027</b> on the anvil <b>16024</b> to facilitate opening of the anvil <b>16024</b> as the distal closure tube <b>16042</b> is moved axially in the proximal direction “PD”. The closure tubes <b>16040</b>, <b>16042</b> may be made of electrically conductive material (such as metal) so that they may serve as part of the antenna, as described above. Components of the spine assembly <b>16102</b> may be made of a nonconductive material (such as plastic).

0449As indicated above, the surgical tool <b>16000</b> includes a tool mounting portion <b>16200</b> that is configured for operable attachment to the tool mounting assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> in the various manners described in detail above. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>, the tool mounting portion <b>16200</b> comprises a tool mounting plate <b>16202</b> that operably supports a transmission arrangement <b>16204</b> thereon. In various embodiments, the transmission arrangement <b>16204</b> includes an articulation transmission <b>16142</b> that comprises a portion of an articulation system <b>16140</b> for articulating the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> about a first tool articulation axis TA<b>1</b>-TA<b>1</b> and a second tool articulation axis TA<b>2</b>-TA<b>2</b>. The first tool articulation axis TA<b>1</b>-TA<b>1</b> is substantially transverse to the second tool articulation axis TA<b>2</b>-TA<b>2</b> and both of the first and second tool articulation axes are substantially transverse to the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 207</figref>.

0450To facilitate selective articulation of the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> about the first and second tool articulation axes TA<b>1</b>-TA<b>1</b>, TA<b>2</b>-TA<b>2</b>, the spine assembly <b>16102</b> comprises a proximal spine portion <b>16110</b> that is pivotally coupled to a distal spine portion <b>16120</b> by pivot pins <b>16122</b> for selective pivotal travel about TA<b>1</b>-TA<b>1</b>. Similarly, the distal spine portion <b>16120</b> is pivotally attached to the elongated channel <b>16022</b> of the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> by pivot pins <b>16124</b> to enable the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> to selectively pivot about the second tool axis TA<b>2</b>-TA<b>2</b> relative to the distal spine portion <b>16120</b>.

0451In various embodiments, the articulation system <b>16140</b> further includes a plurality of articulation elements that operably interface with the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> and an articulation control arrangement <b>16160</b> that is operably supported in the tool mounting member <b>16200</b> as will described in further detail below. In at least one embodiment, the articulation elements comprise a first pair of first articulation cables <b>16144</b> and <b>16146</b>. The first articulation cables are located on a first or right side of the longitudinal tool axis. Thus, the first articulation cables are referred to herein as a right upper cable <b>16144</b> and a right lower cable <b>16146</b>. The right upper cable <b>16144</b> and the right lower cable <b>16146</b> extend through corresponding passages <b>16147</b>, <b>16148</b>, respectively along the right side of the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 211</figref>. The articulation system <b>16140</b> further includes a second pair of second articulation cables <b>16150</b>, <b>16152</b>. The second articulation cables are located on a second or left side of the longitudinal tool axis. Thus, the second articulation cables are referred to herein as a left upper articulation cable <b>16150</b> and a left articulation cable <b>16152</b>. The left upper articulation cable <b>16150</b> and the left lower articulation cable <b>16152</b> extend through passages <b>16153</b>, <b>16154</b>, respectively in the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b>.

0452As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 207</figref>, the right upper cable <b>16144</b> extends around an upper pivot joint <b>16123</b> and is attached to a left upper side of the elongated channel <b>16022</b> at a left pivot joint <b>16125</b>. The right lower cable <b>16146</b> extends around a lower pivot joint <b>16126</b> and is attached to a left lower side of the elongated channel <b>16022</b> at left pivot joint <b>16125</b>. The left upper cable <b>16150</b> extends around the upper pivot joint <b>16123</b> and is attached to a right upper side of the elongated channel <b>16022</b> at a right pivot joint <b>16127</b>. The left lower cable <b>16152</b> extends around the lower pivot joint <b>16126</b> and is attached to a right lower side of the elongated channel <b>16022</b> at right pivot joint <b>16127</b>. Thus, to pivot the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> about the first tool articulation axis TA<b>1</b>-TA<b>1</b> to the left (arrow “L”), the right upper cable <b>16144</b> and the right lower cable <b>16146</b> must be pulled in the proximal direction “PD”. To articulate the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> to the right (arrow “R”) about the first tool articulation axis TA<b>1</b>-TA<b>1</b>, the left upper cable <b>16150</b> and the left lower cable <b>16152</b> must be pulled in the proximal direction “PD”. To articulate the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> about the second tool articulation axis TA<b>2</b>-TA<b>2</b>, in an upward direction (arrow “U”), the right upper cable <b>16144</b> and the left upper cable <b>16150</b> must be pulled in the proximal direction “PD”. To articulate the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> in the downward direction (arrow “DW”) about the second tool articulation axis TA<b>2</b>-TA<b>2</b>, the right lower cable <b>16146</b> and the left lower cable <b>16152</b> must be pulled in the proximal direction “PD”.

0453The proximal ends of the articulation cables <b>16144</b>, <b>16146</b>, <b>16150</b>, <b>16152</b> are coupled to the articulation control arrangement <b>16160</b> which comprises a ball joint assembly that is a part of the articulation transmission <b>16142</b>. More specifically and with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 211</figref>, the ball joint assembly <b>16160</b> includes a ball-shaped member <b>16162</b> that is formed on a proximal portion of the proximal spine <b>16110</b>. Movably supported on the ball-shaped member <b>16162</b> is an articulation control ring <b>16164</b>. As can be further seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 211</figref>, the proximal ends of the articulation cables <b>16144</b>, <b>16146</b>, <b>16150</b>, <b>16152</b> are coupled to the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> by corresponding ball joint arrangements <b>16166</b>. The articulation control ring <b>16164</b> is controlled by an articulation drive assembly <b>16170</b>. As can be most particularly seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 211</figref>, the proximal ends of the first articulation cables <b>16144</b>, <b>16146</b> are attached to the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> at corresponding spaced first points <b>16149</b>, <b>16151</b> that are located on plane <b>16159</b>. Likewise, the proximal ends of the second articulation cables <b>16150</b>, <b>16152</b> are attached to the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> at corresponding spaced second points <b>16153</b>, <b>16155</b> that are also located along plane <b>16159</b>. As the present Detailed Description proceeds, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that such cable attachment configuration on the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> facilitates the desired range of articulation motions as the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> is manipulated by the articulation drive assembly <b>16170</b>.

0454In various forms, the articulation drive assembly <b>16170</b> comprises a horizontal articulation assembly generally designated as <b>16171</b>. In at least one form, the horizontal articulation assembly <b>16171</b> comprises a horizontal push cable <b>16172</b> that is attached to a horizontal gear arrangement <b>16180</b>. The articulation drive assembly <b>16170</b> further comprises a vertically articulation assembly generally designated as <b>16173</b>. In at least one form, the vertical articulation assembly <b>16173</b> comprises a vertical push cable <b>16174</b> that is attached to a vertical gear arrangement <b>16190</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 210 and 211</figref>, the horizontal push cable <b>16172</b> extends through a support plate <b>16167</b> that is attached to the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b>. The distal end of the horizontal push cable <b>16174</b> is attached to the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> by a corresponding ball/pivot joint <b>16168</b>. The vertical push cable <b>16174</b> extends through the support plate <b>16167</b> and the distal end thereof is attached to the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> by a corresponding ball/pivot joint <b>16169</b>.

0455The horizontal gear arrangement <b>16180</b> includes a horizontal driven gear <b>16182</b> that is pivotally mounted on a horizontal shaft <b>16181</b> that is attached to a proximal portion of the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b>. The proximal end of the horizontal push cable <b>16172</b> is pivotally attached to the horizontal driven gear <b>16182</b> such that, as the horizontal driven gear <b>16172</b> is rotated about horizontal pivot axis HA, the horizontal push cable <b>16172</b> applies a first pivot motion to the articulation control ring <b>16164</b>. Likewise, the vertical gear arrangement <b>16190</b> includes a vertical driven gear <b>16192</b> that is pivotally supported on a vertical shaft <b>16191</b> attached to the proximal portion of the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b> for pivotal travel about a vertical pivot axis VA. The proximal end of the vertical push cable <b>16174</b> is pivotally attached to the vertical driven gear <b>16192</b> such that as the vertical driven gear <b>16192</b> is rotated about vertical pivot axis VA, the vertical push cable <b>16174</b> applies a second pivot motion to the articulation control ring <b>16164</b>.

0456The horizontal driven gear <b>16182</b> and the vertical driven gear <b>16192</b> are driven by an articulation gear train <b>16300</b> that operably interfaces with an articulation shifter assembly <b>16320</b>. In at least one form, the articulation shifter assembly comprises an articulation drive gear <b>16322</b> that is coupled to a corresponding one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>. Thus, application of a rotary input motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the articulation drive gear <b>16322</b> when the interface <b>11230</b> is coupled to the tool holder <b>11270</b>. An articulation driven gear <b>16324</b> is attached to a splined shifter shaft <b>16330</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b>. The articulation driven gear <b>16324</b> is in meshing engagement with the articulation drive gear <b>16322</b> as shown. Thus, rotation of the articulation drive gear <b>16322</b> will result in the rotation of the shaft <b>16330</b>. In various forms, a shifter driven gear assembly <b>16340</b> is movably supported on the splined portion <b>16332</b> of the shifter shaft <b>16330</b>.

0457In various embodiments, the shifter driven gear assembly <b>16340</b> includes a driven shifter gear <b>16342</b> that is attached to a shifter plate <b>16344</b>. The shifter plate <b>16344</b> operably interfaces with a shifter solenoid assembly <b>16350</b>. The shifter solenoid assembly <b>16350</b> is coupled to corresponding pins <b>16352</b> by conductors <b>16352</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>. Pins <b>16352</b> are oriented to electrically communicate with slots <b>11258</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 104</figref>) on the tool side <b>11244</b> of the adaptor <b>11240</b>. Such arrangement serves to electrically couple the shifter solenoid assembly <b>16350</b> to the robotic controller <b>11001</b>. Thus, activation of the shifter solenoid <b>16350</b> will shift the shifter driven gear assembly <b>16340</b> on the splined portion <b>16332</b> of the shifter shaft <b>16330</b> as represented by arrow “S” in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 210 and 211</figref>. Various embodiments of the articulation gear train <b>16300</b> further include a horizontal gear assembly <b>16360</b> that includes a first horizontal drive gear <b>16362</b> that is mounted on a shaft <b>16361</b> that is rotatably attached to the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b>. The first horizontal drive gear <b>16362</b> is supported in meshing engagement with a second horizontal drive gear <b>16364</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 211</figref>, the horizontal driven gear <b>16182</b> is in meshing engagement with the distal face portion <b>16365</b> of the second horizontal driven gear <b>16364</b>.

0458Various embodiments of the articulation gear train <b>16300</b> further include a vertical gear assembly <b>16370</b> that includes a first vertical drive gear <b>16372</b> that is mounted on a shaft <b>16371</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b>. The first vertical drive gear <b>16372</b> is supported in meshing engagement with a second vertical drive gear <b>16374</b> that is concentrically supported with the second horizontal drive gear <b>16364</b>. The second vertical drive gear <b>16374</b> is rotatably supported on the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b> for travel therearound. The second horizontal drive gear <b>16364</b> is rotatably supported on a portion of said second vertical drive gear <b>16374</b> for independent rotatable travel thereon. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 211</figref>, the vertical driven gear <b>16192</b> is in meshing engagement with the distal face portion <b>16375</b> of the second vertical driven gear <b>16374</b>.

0459In various forms, the first horizontal drive gear <b>16362</b> has a first diameter and the first vertical drive gear <b>16372</b> has a second diameter. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 210 and 211</figref>, the shaft <b>16361</b> is not on a common axis with shaft <b>16371</b>. That is, the first horizontal driven gear <b>16362</b> and the first vertical driven gear <b>16372</b> do not rotate about a common axis. Thus, when the shifter gear <b>16342</b> is positioned in a center “locking” position such that the shifter gear <b>16342</b> is in meshing engagement with both the first horizontal driven gear <b>16362</b> and the first vertical drive gear <b>16372</b>, the components of the articulation system <b>16140</b> are locked in position. Thus, the shiftable shifter gear <b>16342</b> and the arrangement of first horizontal and vertical drive gears <b>16362</b>, <b>16372</b> as well as the articulation shifter assembly <b>16320</b> collectively may be referred to as an articulation locking system, generally designated as <b>16380</b>.

0460In use, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> may control the articulation system <b>16140</b> as follows. To articulate the end effector <b>16012</b> to the left about the first tool articulation axis TA<b>1</b>-TA<b>1</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> activates the shifter solenoid assembly <b>16350</b> to bring the shifter gear <b>16342</b> into meshing engagement with the first horizontal drive gear <b>16362</b>. Thereafter, the controller <b>11001</b> causes a first rotary output motion to be applied to the articulation drive gear <b>16322</b> to drive the shifter gear in a first direction to ultimately drive the horizontal driven gear <b>16182</b> in another first direction. The horizontal driven gear <b>16182</b> is driven to pivot the articulation ring <b>16164</b> on the ball-shaped portion <b>16162</b> to thereby pull right upper cable <b>16144</b> and the right lower cable <b>16146</b> in the proximal direction “PD”. To articulate the end effector <b>16012</b> to the right about the first tool articulation axis TA<b>1</b>-TA<b>1</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> activates the shifter solenoid assembly <b>16350</b> to bring the shifter gear <b>16342</b> into meshing engagement with the first horizontal drive gear <b>16362</b>. Thereafter, the controller <b>11001</b> causes the first rotary output motion in an opposite direction to be applied to the articulation drive gear <b>16322</b> to drive the shifter gear <b>16342</b> in a second direction to ultimately drive the horizontal driven gear <b>16182</b> in another second direction. Such actions result in the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> moving in such a manner as to pull the left upper cable <b>16150</b> and the left lower cable <b>16152</b> in the proximal direction “PD”. In various embodiments the gear ratios and frictional forces generated between the gears of the vertical gear assembly <b>16370</b> serve to prevent rotation of the vertical driven gear <b>16192</b> as the horizontal gear assembly <b>16360</b> is actuated.

0461To articulate the end effector <b>16012</b> in the upper direction about the second tool articulation axis TA<b>2</b>-TA<b>2</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> activates the shifter solenoid assembly <b>16350</b> to bring the shifter gear <b>16342</b> into meshing engagement with the first vertical drive gear <b>16372</b>. Thereafter, the controller <b>11001</b> causes the first rotary output motion to be applied to the articulation drive gear <b>16322</b> to drive the shifter gear <b>16342</b> in a first direction to ultimately drive the vertical driven gear <b>16192</b> in another first direction. The vertical driven gear <b>16192</b> is driven to pivot the articulation ring <b>16164</b> on the ball-shaped portion <b>16162</b> of the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b> to thereby pull right upper cable <b>16144</b> and the left upper cable <b>16150</b> in the proximal direction “PD”. To articulate the end effector <b>16012</b> in the downward direction about the second tool articulation axis TA<b>2</b>-TA<b>2</b>, the robotic controller <b>11001</b> activates the shifter solenoid assembly <b>16350</b> to bring the shifter gear <b>16342</b> into meshing engagement with the first vertical drive gear <b>16372</b>. Thereafter, the controller <b>11001</b> causes the first rotary output motion to be applied in an opposite direction to the articulation drive gear <b>16322</b> to drive the shifter gear <b>16342</b> in a second direction to ultimately drive the vertical driven gear <b>16192</b> in another second direction. Such actions thereby cause the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> to pull the right lower cable <b>16146</b> and the left lower cable <b>16152</b> in the proximal direction “PD”. In various embodiments, the gear ratios and frictional forces generated between the gears of the horizontal gear assembly <b>16360</b> serve to prevent rotation of the horizontal driven gear <b>16182</b> as the vertical gear assembly <b>16370</b> is actuated.

0462In various embodiments, a variety of sensors may communicate with the robotic controller <b>11001</b> to determine the articulated position of the end effector <b>16012</b>. Such sensors may interface with, for example, the articulation joint <b>16100</b> or be located within the tool mounting portion <b>16200</b>. For example, sensors may be employed to detect the position of the articulation control ring <b>16164</b> on the ball-shaped portion <b>16162</b> of the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b>. Such feedback from the sensors to the controller <b>11001</b> permits the controller <b>11001</b> to adjust the amount of rotation and the direction of the rotary output to the articulation drive gear <b>16322</b>. Further, as indicated above, when the shifter drive gear <b>16342</b> is centrally positioned in meshing engagement with the first horizontal drive gear <b>16362</b> and the first vertical drive gear <b>16372</b>, the end effector <b>16012</b> is locked in the articulated position. Thus, after the desired amount of articulation has been attained, the controller <b>11001</b> may activate the shifter solenoid assembly <b>16350</b> to bring the shifter gear <b>16342</b> into meshing engagement with the first horizontal drive gear <b>16362</b> and the first vertical drive gear <b>16372</b>. In alternative embodiments, the shifter solenoid assembly <b>16350</b> may be spring activated to the central locked position.

0463In use, it may be desirable to rotate the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. In at least one embodiment, the transmission arrangement <b>16204</b> on the tool mounting portion includes a rotational transmission assembly <b>16400</b> that is configured to receive a corresponding rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> and convert that rotary output motion to a rotary control motion for rotating the elongated shaft assembly <b>16008</b> (and surgical end effector <b>16012</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. In various embodiments, for example, a proximal end portion <b>16041</b> of the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b> of the tool mounting portion <b>16200</b> by a forward support cradle <b>16205</b> and a closure sled <b>16510</b> that is also movably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b>. In at least one form, the rotational transmission assembly <b>16400</b> includes a tube gear segment <b>16402</b> that is formed on (or attached to) the proximal end <b>16041</b> of the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> for operable engagement by a rotational gear assembly <b>16410</b> that is operably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>, the rotational gear assembly <b>16410</b>, in at least one embodiment, comprises a rotation drive gear <b>16412</b> that is coupled to a corresponding second one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>16200</b> is coupled to the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>. The rotational gear assembly <b>16410</b> further comprises a first rotary driven gear <b>16414</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b> in meshing engagement with the rotation drive gear <b>16412</b>. The first rotary driven gear <b>16414</b> is attached to a drive shaft <b>16416</b> that is rotatably supported on the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b>. A second rotary driven gear <b>16418</b> is attached to the drive shaft <b>16416</b> and is in meshing engagement with tube gear segment <b>16402</b> on the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b>. Application of a second rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> to the corresponding driven element <b>11304</b> will thereby cause rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>16412</b>. Rotation of the rotation drive gear <b>16412</b> ultimately results in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>16008</b> (and the surgical end effector <b>16012</b>) about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT. It will be appreciated that the application of a rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> in one direction will result in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>16008</b> and surgical end effector <b>16012</b> about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT in a first direction and an application of the rotary output motion in an opposite direction will result in the rotation of the elongated shaft assembly <b>16008</b> and surgical end effector <b>16012</b> in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction.

0464In at least one embodiment, the closure of the anvil <b>12024</b> relative to the staple cartridge <b>12034</b> is accomplished by axially moving a closure portion of the elongated shaft assembly <b>12008</b> in the distal direction “DD” on the spine assembly <b>12049</b>. As indicated above, in various embodiments, the proximal end portion <b>16041</b> of the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> is supported by the closure sled <b>16510</b> which comprises a portion of a closure transmission, generally depicted as <b>16512</b>. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>, the proximal end portion <b>16041</b> of the proximal closure tube portion <b>16040</b> has a collar <b>6048</b> formed thereon. The closure sled <b>16510</b> is coupled to the collar <b>16048</b> by a yoke <b>16514</b> that engages an annular groove <b>16049</b> in the collar <b>16048</b>. Such arrangement serves to enable the collar <b>16048</b> to rotate about the longitudinal tool axis LT-LT while still being coupled to the closure transmission <b>16512</b>. In various embodiments, the closure sled <b>16510</b> has an upstanding portion <b>16516</b> that has a closure rack gear <b>16518</b> formed thereon. The closure rack gear <b>16518</b> is configured for driving engagement with a closure gear assembly <b>16520</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>.

0465In various forms, the closure gear assembly <b>16520</b> includes a closure spur gear <b>16522</b> that is coupled to a corresponding second one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>. Thus, application of a third rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> to the corresponding second driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the closure spur gear <b>16522</b> when the tool mounting portion <b>16202</b> is coupled to the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b>. The closure gear assembly <b>16520</b> further includes a closure reduction gear set <b>16524</b> that is supported in meshing engagement with the closure spur gear <b>16522</b> and the closure rack gear <b>12106</b>. Thus, application of a third rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b> to the corresponding second driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the closure spur gear <b>16522</b> and the closure transmission <b>16512</b> and ultimately drive the closure sled <b>16510</b> and the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> axially on the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b>. The axial direction in which the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> moves ultimately depends upon the direction in which the third driven element <b>11304</b> is rotated. For example, in response to one rotary output motion received from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the closure sled <b>16510</b> will be driven in the distal direction “DD” and ultimately drive the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> in the distal direction “DD”. As the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> is driven distally, the distal closure tube <b>16042</b> is also driven distally by virtue of it connection with the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b>. As the distal closure tube <b>16042</b> is driven distally, the end of the closure tube <b>16042</b> will engage a portion of the anvil <b>16024</b> and cause the anvil <b>16024</b> to pivot to a closed position. Upon application of an “opening” out put motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> of the robotic system <b>11000</b>, the closure sled <b>16510</b> and the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> will be driven in the proximal direction “PD” on the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b>. As the proximal closure tube <b>16040</b> is driven in the proximal direction “PD”, the distal closure tube <b>16042</b> will also be driven in the proximal direction “PD”. As the distal closure tube <b>16042</b> is driven in the proximal direction “PD”, the opening <b>16045</b> therein interacts with the tab <b>16027</b> on the anvil <b>16024</b> to facilitate the opening thereof. In various embodiments, a spring (not shown) may be employed to bias the anvil <b>16024</b> to the open position when the distal closure tube <b>16042</b> has been moved to its starting position. In various embodiments, the various gears of the closure gear assembly <b>16520</b> are sized to generate the necessary closure forces needed to satisfactorily close the anvil <b>16024</b> onto the tissue to be cut and stapled by the surgical end effector <b>16012</b>. For example, the gears of the closure transmission <b>16520</b> may be sized to generate approximately 70-120 pounds of closure forces.

0466In various embodiments, the cutting instrument is driven through the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> by a knife bar <b>16530</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>. In at least one form, the knife bar <b>16530</b> is fabricated with a joint arrangement (not shown) and/or is fabricated from material that can accommodate the articulation of the surgical end effector <b>16102</b> about the first and second tool articulation axes while remaining sufficiently rigid so as to push the cutting instrument through tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>16012</b>. The knife bar <b>16530</b> extends through a hollow passage <b>16532</b> in the proximal spine portion <b>16110</b>.

0467In various embodiments, a proximal end <b>16534</b> of the knife bar <b>16530</b> is rotatably affixed to a knife rack gear <b>16540</b> such that the knife bar <b>16530</b> is free to rotate relative to the knife rack gear <b>16540</b>. The distal end of the knife bar <b>16530</b> is attached to the cutting instrument in the various manners described above. As can be seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>, the knife rack gear <b>16540</b> is slidably supported within a rack housing <b>16542</b> that is attached to the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b> such that the knife rack gear <b>16540</b> is retained in meshing engagement with a knife drive transmission portion <b>16550</b> of the transmission arrangement <b>16204</b>. In various embodiments, the knife drive transmission portion <b>16550</b> comprises a knife gear assembly <b>16560</b>. More specifically and with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>, in at least one embodiment, the knife gear assembly <b>16560</b> includes a knife spur gear <b>16562</b> that is coupled to a corresponding fourth one of the driven discs or elements <b>11304</b> on the adapter side <b>11307</b> of the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 105</figref>. Thus, application of another rotary output motion from the robotic system <b>11000</b> through the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> to the corresponding fourth driven element <b>11304</b> will cause rotation of the knife spur gear <b>16562</b>. The knife gear assembly <b>16560</b> further includes a knife gear reduction set <b>16564</b> that includes a first knife driven gear <b>16566</b> and a second knife drive gear <b>16568</b>. The knife gear reduction set <b>16564</b> is rotatably mounted to the tool mounting plate <b>16202</b> such that the first knife driven gear <b>16566</b> is in meshing engagement with the knife spur gear <b>16562</b>. Likewise, the second knife drive gear <b>16568</b> is in meshing engagement with a third knife drive gear assembly <b>16570</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 210</figref>, the second knife driven gear <b>16568</b> is in meshing engagement with a fourth knife driven gear <b>16572</b> of the third knife drive gear assembly <b>16570</b>. The fourth knife driven gear <b>16572</b> is in meshing engagement with a fifth knife driven gear assembly <b>16574</b> that is in meshing engagement with the knife rack gear <b>16540</b>. In various embodiments, the gears of the knife gear assembly <b>16560</b> are sized to generate the forces needed to drive the cutting instrument through the tissue clamped in the surgical end effector <b>16012</b> and actuate the staples therein. For example, the gears of the knife gear assembly <b>16560</b> may be sized to generate approximately 40 to 100 pounds of driving force. It will be appreciated that the application of a rotary output motion from the tool drive assembly <b>11010</b> in one direction will result in the axial movement of the cutting instrument in a distal direction and application of the rotary output motion in an opposite direction will result in the axial travel of the cutting instrument in a proximal direction.

0468As can be appreciated from the foregoing description, the surgical tool <b>16000</b> represents a vast improvement over prior robotic tool arrangements. The unique and novel transmission arrangement employed by the surgical tool <b>16000</b> enables the tool to be operably coupled to a tool holder portion <b>11010</b> of a robotic system that only has four rotary output bodies, yet obtain the rotary output motions therefrom to: (i) articulate the end effector about two different articulation axes that are substantially transverse to each other as well as the longitudinal tool axis; (ii) rotate the end effector <b>16012</b> about the longitudinal tool axis; (iii) close the anvil <b>16024</b> relative to the surgical staple cartridge <b>16034</b> to varying degrees to enable the end effector <b>16012</b> to be used to manipulate tissue and then clamp it into position for cutting and stapling; and (iv) firing the cutting instrument to cut through the tissue clamped within the end effector <b>16012</b>. The unique and novel shifter arrangements of various embodiments of the present invention described above enable two different articulation actions to be powered from a single rotatable body portion of the robotic system.

0469The various embodiments of the present invention have been described above in connection with cutting-type surgical instruments. It should be noted, however, that in other embodiments, the inventive surgical instrument disclosed herein need not be a cutting-type surgical instrument, but rather could be used in any type of surgical instrument including remote sensor transponders. For example, it could be a non-cutting endoscopic instrument, a grasper, a stapler, a clip applier, an access device, a drug/gene therapy delivery device, an energy device using ultrasound, RF, laser, etc. In addition, the present invention may be in laparoscopic instruments, for example. The present invention also has application in conventional endoscopic and open surgical instrumentation as well as robotic-assisted surgery.

0470<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 211</figref> depicts use of various aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention in connection with a surgical tool <b>17000</b> that has an ultrasonically powered end effector <b>17012</b>. The end effector <b>17012</b> is operably attached to a tool mounting portion <b>17100</b> by an elongated shaft assembly <b>17008</b>. The tool mounting portion <b>17100</b> may be substantially similar to the various tool mounting portions described hereinabove. In one embodiment, the end effector <b>17012</b> includes an ultrasonically powered jaw portion <b>17014</b> that is powered by alternating current or direct current in a known manner. Such ultrasonically-powered devices are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,783,524, entitled ROBOTIC SURGICAL TOOL WITH ULTRASOUND CAUTERIZING AND CUTTING INSTRUMENT, the entire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference. In the illustrated embodiment, a separate power cord <b>17020</b> is shown. It will be understood, however, that the power may be supplied thereto from the robotic controller <b>1001</b> through the tool mounting portion <b>17100</b>. The surgical end effector <b>17012</b> further includes a movable jaw <b>17016</b> that may be used to clamp tissue onto the ultrasonic jaw portion <b>17014</b>. The movable jaw portion <b>17016</b> may be selectively actuated by the robotic controller <b>11001</b> through the tool mounting portion <b>17100</b> in anyone of the various manners herein described.

0471<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 213</figref> illustrates use of various aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention in connection with a surgical tool <b>18000</b> that has an end effector <b>18012</b> that comprises a linear stapling device. The end effector <b>18012</b> is operably attached to a tool mounting portion <b>18100</b> by an elongated shaft assembly <b>13700</b> of the type and construction describe above. However, the end effector <b>18012</b> may be attached to the tool mounting portion <b>18100</b> by a variety of other elongated shaft assemblies described herein. In one embodiment, the tool mounting portion <b>18100</b> may be substantially similar to tool mounting portion <b>13750</b>. However, various other tool mounting portions and their respective transmission arrangements describe in detail herein may also be employed. Such linear stapling head portions are also disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,673,781, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH STAPLE DRIVER THAT SUPPORTS MULTIPLE WIRE DIAMETER STAPLES, the entire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.

0472Various sensor embodiments described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0062212 A1, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,167,185, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, may be employed with many of the surgical tool embodiments disclosed herein. As was indicated above, the master controller <b>11001</b> generally includes master controllers (generally represented by <b>11003</b>) which are grasped by the surgeon and manipulated in space while the surgeon views the procedure via a stereo display <b>11002</b>. See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 96</figref>. The master controllers <b>11001</b> are manual input devices which preferably move with multiple degrees of freedom, and which often further have an actuatable handle for actuating the surgical tools. Some of the surgical tool embodiments disclosed herein employ a motor or motors in their tool drive portion to supply various control motions to the tool's end effector. Such embodiments may also obtain additional control motion(s) from the motor arrangement employed in the robotic system components. Other embodiments disclosed herein obtain all of the control motions from motor arrangements within the robotic system.

0473Such motor powered arrangements may employ various sensor arrangements that are disclosed in the published US patent application cited above to provide the surgeon with a variety of forms of feedback without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, those master controller arrangements <b>11003</b> that employ a manually actuatable firing trigger can employ run motor sensor(s) to provide the surgeon with feedback relating to the amount of force applied to or being experienced by the cutting member. The run motor sensor(s) may be configured for communication with the firing trigger portion to detect when the firing trigger portion has been actuated to commence the cutting/stapling operation by the end effector. The run motor sensor may be a proportional sensor such as, for example, a rheostat or variable resistor. When the firing trigger is drawn in, the sensor detects the movement, and sends an electrical signal indicative of the voltage (or power) to be supplied to the corresponding motor. When the sensor is a variable resistor or the like, the rotation of the motor may be generally proportional to the amount of movement of the firing trigger. That is, if the operator only draws or closes the firing trigger in a small amount, the rotation of the motor is relatively low. When the firing trigger is fully drawn in (or in the fully closed position), the rotation of the motor is at its maximum. In other words, the harder the surgeon pulls on the firing trigger, the more voltage is applied to the motor causing greater rates of rotation. Other arrangements may provide the surgeon with a feed back meter <b>11005</b> that may be viewed through the display <b>1002</b> and provide the surgeon with a visual indication of the amount of force being applied to the cutting instrument or dynamic clamping member. Other sensor arrangements may be employed to provide the master controller <b>11001</b> with an indication as to whether a staple cartridge has been loaded into the end effector, whether the anvil has been moved to a closed position prior to firing, etc.

0474In alternative embodiments, a motor-controlled interface may be employed in connection with the controller <b>11001</b> that limit the maximum trigger pull based on the amount of loading (e.g., clamping force, cutting force, etc.) experienced by the surgical end effector. For example, the harder it is to drive the cutting instrument through the tissue clamped within the end effector, the harder it would be to pull/actuate the activation trigger. In still other embodiments, the trigger on the controller <b>11001</b> is arranged such that the trigger pull location is proportionate to the end effector-location/condition. For example, the trigger is only fully depressed when the end effector is fully fired.

0475The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, the device can be disassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, the device can be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the present application.

0476Although the present invention has been described herein in connection with certain disclosed embodiments, many modifications and variations to those embodiments may be implemented. For example, different types of end effectors may be employed. Also, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. The foregoing description and following claims are intended to cover all such modification and variations.

0477Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.